In the electrifying atmosphere of Alexandra Palace, where the roar of the crowd echoes like thunder and arrows fly with pinpoint precision, Gary Anderson continues to defy the years. The two-time PDC World Darts Champion, known affectionately as the “Flying Scotsman,” recently delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 World Championship, reminding everyone that age is just a number in this unforgiving sport.
Fresh off a strong victory over Connor Scutt that propelled him into the third round, the 55-year-old Scot opened up about what truly keeps the fire burning in his belly. It’s not just the pursuit of a third world title or the thrill of competition—it’s his young son, Tai, an 11-year-old prodigy who’s already making waves in the junior darts scene.
Anderson, who celebrated his birthday just days before the tournament, revealed how Tai has become his unlikely practice partner. “We came up on Saturday, so me and Tai have been in the room for the last three days, and he’s been dragging me out for a throw, playing 1 2 1,” he shared with a laugh. This father-son bonding has injected new energy into the veteran’s preparation, pulling him away from idle moments and back to the board.
Tai’s passion for darts is undeniable and entirely self-driven. The youngster competes relentlessly—tournaments on Mondays, pub leagues on Tuesdays and Fridays, JDC events on Thursdays, and more competitions over the weekends—all on his own initiative. Anderson admits he doesn’t push him: “The way wee Tai’s playing now and I do not practise with him. He does it all himself. He puts in his own practice.” In fact, the proud dad humorously reflected on not forcing the sport on his son earlier: “See, that’s where I’ve made the mistake. I should have and then he would have packed in by the time he was eight!”
But Tai’s dedication is paying off spectacularly. He’s dominating the Junior Darts Corporation rankings, sitting comfortably atop the leaderboard with a massive points lead, and has qualified for high-profile finals. Anderson sees immense potential: “The way he’s going, I think he’s about 1,600 points clear at the JDC… He’s going alright.”
This rising talent has sparked a bold dream for Anderson—one that could extend his illustrious career far beyond expectations. With Tai turning 16 in five years’ time, when qualifying for the PDC World Championship becomes possible for young stars, Anderson envisions staying in the game long enough to share the iconic Ally Pally stage with his son.
“If Tai’s good enough to play on that stage when he’s 16, I’ll be 60, so we’ll try to do it,” he declared. And in true competitive spirit, he added with a grin: “I just want to give him such a hammering on that stage.” It’s a playful yet fierce ambition, underscoring the banter and rivalry that could make such a matchup unforgettable.
Drawing inspiration from veterans like 71-year-old Paul Lim, whom Anderson praised as “fantastic” and an “absolute legend,” he dismissed notions that darts is solely a young man’s game. “Age doesn’t matter,” he insisted, even joking about potentially playing into his seventies: “I’d like to.”
Anderson’s love for the sport remains undimmed, fueled now by Tai’s emergence. “I do like playing darts. Tai’s playing now, so I need to show a bit more interest and kick him up the backside and get him a bit better.” This familial motivation adds a heartfelt layer to his journey, transforming personal practice sessions into cherished moments.
As the World Championship unfolds, with Anderson set to face tough opponents like Jermaine Wattimena next, his story resonates deeply. In an era dominated by teenage sensations and relentless schedules, the Flying Scotsman’s resolve to keep flying—for glory, for legacy, and for a future showdown with his son—captures the enduring magic of darts. It’s a reminder that the greatest rivalries often start at home, around a practice board, dreaming of the bright lights ahead.
Tai’s rapid progress hints at a bright future, much like other young talents breaking through. If he reaches the professional ranks, that father-son clash could become one of the most anticipated moments in darts history—a hammering delivered with love, pride, and unyielding competition.
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