Gerwyn Price reaches World Matchplay semi‑finals as he celebrates becoming a grandfather

Welsh darts star Gerwyn Price defeated Ross Smith 16‑12 in the World Matchplay quarter‑finals at Blackpool's Winter Gardens, posting a 78‑point average and advancing to face Dutch third seed Gian van Veen in the semi‑final. After the win Price said, "Ross played a decent game as well, so it's nice to play well when someone is playing well. It gives you a bit of confidence going into the next round," and added, "I rode off four legs on the bounce." Van Veen secured his semi‑final spot by beating England's James Wade 16‑13, commenting, "I’m glad I got the job done." In a personal announcement made during the tournament, Price revealed that his daughter Emily and her partner Jude Williams are expecting a child in January 2027, making Price a grandfather at 41. He said, "My first few words I'd rather not repeat, but after that I was just happy. The main thing is the baby is healthy – that's all that matters," and added, "I’m thrilled for them. He may be a bit lazy, but he's a good guy. I’ll make sure he gets his legs."