Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price Disqualified Ahead of New Zealand Darts Masters After Failing Doping Tests
In a stunning development just days before the 2025 New Zealand Darts Masters, two of darts’ biggest names—Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price—have been disqualified after returning positive tests for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The bombshell announcement has rocked the sport, raising serious concerns about doping in professional darts.
Shocking Suspension Ahead of NZ Event
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) confirmed that both players tested positive for banned substances in recent out-of-competition screenings. While the exact substances have not been disclosed, the findings violate WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) and PDC anti-doping policies, leading to their immediate withdrawal from the New Zealand Darts Masters.
Littler, the teenage prodigy who has taken the darting world by storm, and Price, the former world No. 1 known for his explosive playing style, now face provisional suspensions pending further investigation. Both players have the right to appeal, but their absence leaves a massive void in the upcoming tournament.
Player Reactions and Denials
Littler, who has quickly become one of darts’ most marketable stars, released a statement expressing his shock:
“I am completely devastated by this news. I have never intentionally taken any banned substance, and I will work with the authorities to prove my innocence.”
Price, no stranger to controversy but never before linked to doping, has remained silent so far. His management team, however, has indicated they will contest the findings, suggesting possible procedural errors.
Darts World Reacts with Disbelief
The news has sent shockwaves through the sport, with fellow players and fans expressing disbelief. Michael van Gerwen, a longtime rival of Price, called it “a sad day for darts,” while Peter Wright urged caution, saying, “Let’s wait for the full facts before jumping to conclusions.”
PDC chairman Barry Hearn issued a brief statement reinforcing the organization’s stance:
“The PDC has a zero-tolerance policy on doping. We will ensure a fair and thorough process, but the integrity of the sport must come first.”
What’s Next? Potential Bans and Fallout
If found guilty, both players could face lengthy suspensions—potentially up to four years under WADA rules. For Littler, this could derail his rapid ascent in the sport, while Price, at 39, may see his career severely impacted.
The New Zealand Darts Masters, set to begin in Auckland this weekend, will now proceed without two of its biggest draws, forcing organizers to adjust the lineup last minute.
A Dark Cloud Over Darts
This scandal is one of the most significant doping cases in professional darts history, sparking debates over testing protocols and whether the sport does enough to police substance use. With the PDC under pressure to enforce stricter measures, this incident could lead to major changes in anti-doping policies.
As investigations continue, the futures of both players hang in the balance—and the darting world is left wondering: Is this an isolated incident, or just the tip of the iceberg?
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
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