In a bizarre press conference that has sent shockwaves through the Winter Gardens, former World Champion Gerwyn Price has sensationally accused teenage sensation Luke Littler of using “voodoo” magic following his crushing 18-9 defeat in the World Matchplay final.
The Iceman, known for his fiery temperament, was visibly rattled after being outclassed by the 19 year-old prodigy. However, his anger took a supernatural turn when he claimed Littler’s dominance was not down to talent, but to “dark arts.”
“I’m not making excuses, but something was off,” Price fumed, gesturing wildly at the oche. “Every time I lined up a double, my arm went dead. Dead! Like someone was squeezing my shoulder from the other side of the room. I’ve played Taylor, I’ve played Van Gerwen—they beat you with skill. This kid? He’s got dolls. I swear he’s got little voodoo dolls in that bag of his.”
Price, who managed only nine legs against the relentless Littler, claimed the crowd’s energy was “too weird” and that his own darts felt “heavier than lead” in the final session.
“I’m going to the PDC about this,” Price continued. “Check his flights, check his darts, check his bloody pockets. You don’t hit 140s every single visit without a little help from the other side. It’s not natural.”
The accusations were met with laughter from the 19 year-old champion, who remained cool and composed during the trophy presentation.
“Voodoo?” Littler chuckled when asked about Price’s comments. “The only magic I used was my practice board back home. Gezzy is just frustrated. He knows I was too good tonight. Maybe he should check his own head, not my bag.”
Littler, who averaged over 105 and pinned 60% of his doubles, produced one of the greatest displays in Matchplay history to claim his first major ranking title on the Fylde Coast.
PDC officials have dismissed Price’s complaint as “heat of the moment frustration,” but have confirmed they will not be conducting a “spiritual inspection” of Littler’s equipment.
Social media has erupted, with fans coining the nickname “Littler the Voodoo Child.” Price, meanwhile, has refused to rule out consulting a medium before his next tournament.
“I’ll be back,” Price warned. “But next time, I’m bringing my own shaman.”