Phil Taylor has stated that he wouldn’t mind if his impressive record of world titles were to be surpassed, asserting that young competitor Luke Littler is currently the most capable of achieving that feat.

In the past year, Taylor’s enthusiasm for the sport has been reignited by the fierce competition between the two Lukes, Littler and world No.1 Humphries.

3

Previously, he often opted to turn off Sky Sports and distance himself from the sport that had filled his life for the past forty years.

Taylor, who retired from professional darts after the 2018 world final, remains the standard with his sixteen world titles—14 in the PDC and 2 in the BDO.

Littler, at just 17 years old and the runner-up from last year, is favored to win the Sid Waddell Trophy on New Year’s Day.

When asked about the possibility of his record of 16 world titles being broken, Taylor, now 64, remarked: “I hope so. You never know. If it happens, it wouldn’t bother me.”

He added, “It certainly could happen. Luke has youth on his side.”

“It’s a lot more challenging now. I probably secured 10 world championships with a schedule that wasn’t nearly as demanding as it is today.”

“I’ve received more media attention since Luke Littler became a world runner-up and began winning tournaments than I did when I was actively winning.”

“Every time I check Google News, I see myself. It’s wonderful.”

3

Taylor, who last clinched a world title over a decade ago, will be watching from home as Littler competes against underdog Ian White, who is 37 years older than him, in the third round.

He remarked, “Luke’s rise has been absolutely incredible, and I admire his approach to the game. He is not driven by financial rewards; he is focused on titles.”

‘It’s wonderful to see’ – Phil Taylor talks about his conversation with Luke Littler regarding prize money after the teen becomes a millionaire

“He enjoys the game. If he loses, he doesn’t sulk; he simply moves on to the next chance.”

He cautioned Littler, “He needs to be mindful of not becoming complacent.”

“I used to call it the Manchester United syndrome, where they never had an easy match.”

“I never encountered an easy game either, as each opponent gave their utmost against me. Every rival Luke meets will either perform exceptionally or poorly—there’s no in-between.”

“They’ll be eager to excel because not only is there good prize money at stake, but they also gain substantial recognition.”

Not long ago, the most prominent figure in the oche rarely even watched the sport in which he once excelled.

However, this year has seen a change, and he intends to catch every dart thrown during the upcoming six days of competitive play.

Taylor shared, “I’m rediscovering my enjoyment for darts. I’ll be tuning in to nearly every match at the World Championships at Alexandra Palace.”

3

“What excites me is the quality of the players, particularly the younger ones coming through, specifically the two Lukes. I have a lot of admiration for both.”

“They bring a fresh viewpoint. They are enjoyable to watch.”

“You can never predict what they will do, whether it’s nine-darters or ten-darters.”

“They bring an element of excitement. Their rivalry is phenomenal. It attracts crowds and boosts ticket sales.”

Taylor underwent hip surgery this summer, which necessitated the use of crutches for several weeks, prompting him to withdraw from participating in Seniors Darts.

The Stoke icon commented, “It’s now about focusing on exercise and enhancing blood flow.”

“Competitive darts is now in my past. My mind is eager, but my body isn’t cooperating. I feel 18 inside, but…”

“Let’s prioritize health. It takes dedication. To excel, one must adopt a lifestyle that includes practicing for two to three hours daily.”

“That’s no longer my path. I’m nearing 65, and my body simply cannot keep up anymore.”

World Darts Championship – top stories

READ MORE about all the excitement leading up to the Ally Pally extravaganza…

Comprehensive details:

News, features, and interviews: