Phil Taylor, from Burslem, has hinted at a potential exhibition match against a young star who has taken the sport by storm, despite calling it a day with professional darts nearly six years ago
Darts legend Phil Taylor is eagerly anticipating a potential dream exhibition match against Luke Littler – even though he officially retired from the sport nearly six years ago.
Known as ‘The Power’, 16-time world champion Phil, from Burslem, has hinted at an exciting clash of generations against up-and-coming star Luke who counts Phil as his hero. The younger player voiced his keenness to face him on the oche, stating: “I’d love to play him.”
Although their careers haven’t overlapped, Phil opened up about his willingness to take on Luke during an interview with Spin Bet, saying: “I can’t do it at the minute [following an injury], but will I do it? Of course I would.”
Expressing admiration for the youngster, Phil added: “I’ve seen his interviews when he’s speaking about me and other things. He’s just a legend of the sport. For him to be talking about me, it’s just crazy to think.
“He’s brilliant. So far, he’s handling the pressure brilliantly, the lad is. He’s kept his feet on the ground, he’s got good parents, a good manager around him and he’s doing brilliant. I love him.”
At just 17, Luke seized the Premier League Darts title in May, underlining his swift elevation within the sport. His surprising path to the World Championship final has thrust him into the limelight, attracting commendations from numerous sporting greats, reports the Mirror.
While discussing his fleeting meeting with Phil, Luke confided to the MMA Hour: “I met him once. Our sponsor, Target, who make our darts and stuff. That’s when I met him. I’ve not seen him after the World Championships or anything.”
The darting world is abuzz with the prospect of a match-up between the prodigious Luke and darts icon Phil, with Taylor himself
Phil didn’t hold back on advice for Luke, emphasizing the importance of dedication: “Listen, if you’re old enough, you’re good enough. It all depends on Luke (on how good he can become), if he remains dedicated and keeps practising and doing what he is doing, then he will be alright.”
Yet, Phil also cautioned the rising star about the pitfalls of fame: “It’s just if he gets distracted by things, thinking about different things and doing different things and spreading himself a bit too thin. Everyone will want a piece of him, you see. He needs to listen to his manager and keep grounded.”
Phil firmly believes in Luke’s potential to reach the pinnacle of darts, boldly stating: “Honestly, I can’t believe him. 100% he will win a world title and if he doesn’t then it will be the biggest shame in sport that’s for sure.”