Phil Taylor, the sixteen-time world darts champion, has expressed his admiration for the emerging talent of 17-year-old Luke Littler, considering him the most likely candidate to one day surpass his own historic record. Taylor’s reign atop the darts world spanned decades, accumulating fourteen PDC world titles and two BDO crowns. While he hopes his record remains unbroken, he acknowledges its vulnerability and believes that if anyone can achieve the feat, it’s Littler, given his youth and prodigious talent. The demanding schedule of modern professional darts, far more intense than during Taylor’s peak, further emphasizes the magnitude of such an accomplishment.
Interestingly, Taylor’s retirement from professional darts in 2018 had led him to distance himself from the sport, often avoiding watching matches. However, the captivating rivalry between Luke Littler and the current world number one, Luke Humphries, has reignited his passion for the game. Their exciting brand of darts and the unpredictable nature of their matches have drawn Taylor back in, making him an avid spectator once again. He credits the two Lukes with bringing a breath of fresh air to the sport and revitalizing his own interest. The increased media attention surrounding Littler’s rise has also brought renewed focus on Taylor, demonstrating the enduring legacy of his dominance.
Taylor’s admiration for Littler extends beyond his skill, encompassing his demeanor and attitude towards the sport. He praises Littler’s focus on titles and enjoyment of the game rather than monetary rewards, noting his sportsmanlike conduct in both victory and defeat. Taylor believes this mindset is crucial for navigating the pressures of professional darts, especially the increased scrutiny that comes with high-profile matches. He cautions Littler against complacency, drawing a parallel to the “Manchester United syndrome,” where every opponent raises their game against the top player. Taylor anticipates that every player facing Littler will either perform exceptionally well or exceptionally poorly, driven by the opportunity to earn prize money and build their reputation.
Taylor’s renewed engagement with darts is evident in his eagerness to watch the World Championships at Alexandra Palace, particularly matches involving the two Lukes. He marvels at their talent and the excitement they generate, highlighting their ability to produce dramatic moments like nine and ten-darters. The rivalry between the two young players, according to Taylor, is a significant draw for the sport, attracting larger audiences and boosting ticket sales. It serves as a testament to the evolving nature of darts and its ability to captivate viewers with compelling narratives and exceptional skill.
While Taylor enjoys his role as a spectator, his own playing days are behind him. Recent hip surgery and the physical demands of competitive darts have forced him to retire from the Seniors Darts circuit. Despite feeling mentally young, he acknowledges his body’s limitations. He recognizes the dedication required to maintain a top level of performance, including rigorous practice routines, which are no longer feasible for him at nearly 65 years old. He now prioritizes his health and well-being, accepting the natural progression of his career.
In summary, Phil Taylor, the legendary darts champion, has found a renewed appreciation for the sport through the emergence of young talents like Luke Littler. While he hopes his record of sixteen world titles remains intact, he recognizes Littler’s potential to surpass it. Taylor admires Littler’s dedication, sportsmanship, and captivating playing style, attributes he sees as essential for success in professional darts. His own retirement from competitive play allows him to enjoy the sport from a new perspective, focusing on the exciting developments and rivalries within the current generation of players. He recognizes the physical demands of the sport and the importance of prioritizing health, content with his legacy and the evolving landscape of professional darts.
