Gerwyn Price has withdrawn from the International Darts Open just moments before the tournament even started, as confirmed by the PDC. The four-time champion, who won the event four times from five editions between 2018 and 2023—with only Joe Cullen stopping him in 2022—will not be making the trip to Riesa this year.
Price's absence comes after he competed in the final night of the Premier League Darts in Sheffield ahead of Finals Night. In Sheffield, he stole the headlines after losing to Stephen Bunting in the semi-finals, pointing out a fan and getting them ejected.
As a result of Price's withdrawal before the tournament officially started, Christian Kist will be sent straight into the second round. The Dutchman will now play either Ryan Joyce or Jeffrey Sparidaans, who compete in the opening match of the tournament.
