From the dartboard to the pool table, former World Darts Champion Gerwyn Price is set to make a significant splash in the nineball world by competing in the 2026 UK Open Pool Championship. This high-stakes tournament, featuring 256 top players and a substantial prize fund, will test Price’s renowned multi-sport talent. Having previously impressed in a Pro-Am event, ‘The Iceman’ is now ready to showcase his skills on a grander stage, bringing his unique star power and competitive fire to the green felt.
The Iceman’s New Arena: UK Open Pool Championship
Gerwyn Price, known globally for his fierce presence on the darts oche and his past as a professional rugby player, is embarking on yet another thrilling sporting chapter. The Welshman, who once dominated the darts world, is now turning his attention to the precise world of nineball pool, preparing to challenge some of the best players on the planet at the 2026 UK Open Pool Championship.
This isn’t Price’s first encounter with the cue. He previously participated in a Pro-Am event at last year’s Mosconi Cup, offering a glimpse into his potential. Now, he steps into the spotlight as a full competitor, ready to demonstrate his versatility and competitive spirit.
What is the UK Open Pool Championship?
The UK Open Pool Championship is rapidly becoming one of the most prestigious events in the nineball pool calendar. Here’s a quick overview of what makes it so significant:
- Location: The tournament will be held at the Brentwood Centre.
- Timing: It takes place in late May.
- Competitors: A massive field of 256 players, comprising 128 elite professionals from around the globe alongside talented amateur entrants.
- Prize Fund: The event boasts an impressive and increased prize pool of £167,500, attracting top talent and cementing its status as a major draw in professional pool.
Price’s Unstoppable Sporting Journey
Gerwyn Price’s athletic career is nothing short of extraordinary. He transitioned from a successful career in professional rugby to become a World Champion in darts – a testament to his innate sporting ability and relentless drive. His decision to now compete in a high-level pool tournament further highlights his remarkable talent and fearlessness in tackling new challenges.
The level of competition at the UK Open is incredibly high. Last year’s title was claimed by Singapore’s Aloysius Yapp, who delivered a dominant performance, demonstrating the caliber of players Price will face. However, Price is no stranger to intense pressure and top-tier opponents.
Proving His Pool Prowess
Despite his relative novelty in professional pool circuits, Price has already shown he’s more than just a celebrity participant. During last year’s Mosconi Cup Pro-Am, he partnered with Milan Patel and delivered a memorable moment. In a crucial game against Ade Oladipo and Hugo Boyle, Price sunk the winning shot, securing victory for his team. True to his ‘Iceman’ persona, he followed it up with his characteristic, passionate scream – a familiar sight to darts fans, now echoing in the world of pool.
His participation is expected to bring a fresh wave of attention to nineball pool, drawing eyes from across the sporting world to see if this multi-talented athlete can replicate his darts success on the green baize. Can ‘The Iceman’ conquer yet another sport? The 2026 UK Open Pool Championship promises to be an unmissable event for sports fans everywhere.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
