Welshman Gerwyn Price has apologised after a gesture he made during his victory over Jose de Sousa at the PDC World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace last night.
Some construed Price to be mocking the disabled after he missed a 180 attempt in the fourth-round clash.
Price stuck his tongue into his lip and held his hands out in front of him, a reaction which sparked criticism of his actions online and prompted an on-air apology from broadcasters Sky.
READ MORE: Gerwyn Price reveals he plans rugby return
Now, via the PDC, Price has issued an apology. When approached for a comment, the PDC confirmed Price has been “reminded of the standards expected of him as a professional”. The governing body added Price has apologised “for any distress he may have caused”.
"Gerwyn has been reminded of the standards expected of him as a professional," the PDC said in a statement, via the Daily Star.
"He has stressed to us that it was a spontaneous gesture and he did not intend for it to cause offence.
"He is upset to think that anyone may think otherwise and would like to apologise sincerely for any distress he may have caused."
Level Playing Field, a campaign group which aims to improve the match day experience and access to fans with disabilities, has responded with a statement, hitting hit out at Price.
It read: “Over the years, many disabled people would have been taunted, teased or mocked by the disgusting, disgraceful and offensive gesture made by Gerwyn Price in the World Darts Championship on Thursday.
“Sky Sports have apologised, but Gerwyn Price should be coming forward to explain why he decided to conduct himself in that way and apologise.
“Gerwyn Price is in the public eye as an elite darts player. By making a derogatory gesture that has historically been used to abuse disabled people, he is showcasing a sport that is not welcoming or inclusive.
“We expect Professional Darts Corporation to look to educate their players regarding disability inclusion. We at Level Playing Field would be happy to support the PDC.”
Price will face Alan Soutar or Gabriel Clemens in the quarter-finals on New Year’s Day.
READ MORE:
Gerwyn Price forced to buy earplugs to cope with abuse and booing from fans
Sky Sports forced to lower TV volume after Gerwyn Price subjected to X-rated abuse
'It was a bit of a joke!' - Gerwyn Price reveals how shock boxing bout emerged and why he's doing it
