PDC World Championship 2024: Gerwyn Price opens with victory over Connor Scutt

Gerwyn Price says he is playing some of his best darts since his 2021 world title win after a ruthless victory over debutant Connor Scutt at the PDC World Darts Championship.

After receiving a first-round bye as fifth seed, Price cruised to a 3-0 win at Alexandra Palace in London.

England's Scutt, 27, was unable to find the same level as he did in an opening win over Poland's Krzysztof Kciuk.

Price hit 17 tons, including five 180s, and had a healthy check-out percentage.

The 38-year-old is aiming to end a productive 2023 season, where he has won six ranking titles and guided Wales to a World Cup of Darts success by becoming only the seventh multiple world champion.

"I thought I started really well with a 180 first leg and got the jitters out. I played pretty decent," said Price, who had a three-dart average of 98.

"I slipped up a little bit later and missed a couple of doubles, but overall it was a decent performance."

Asked if he is playing some of his best darts since winning the title three years ago, he said: "Yes, it's been a decent year even though I've not won a big major and I know my game is in a good place. Fingers crossed I can go all the way."

Price will face Northern Ireland's 28th seed Brendan Dolan or the winner of a first-round match between Mickey Mansell, another Northern Irishman, and China's Xiaochen Zong.

The third round does not start until 27 December and the winner will be crowned on 3 January.

A field of 96 players, including reigning champion Michael Smith, have gathered in London to compete for a first prize of £500,000.

Tibault Tricole (Fra) 3-1 Mario Vandenbogaerde (Bel)

Mak Lon Leung (Hkg) 3-2 Gian van Veen (Ned)

Martin Lukeman (Eng) 3-1 Haupei Puha (Nzl)