In a poignant moment for darts fans worldwide, Phil Taylor, the legendary figure known as “The Power,” has officially retired from competitive darts, bringing an end to a storied career that reshaped the sport. The 64-year-old, widely regarded as the greatest darts player of all time, announced his decision to step away from the oche, citing debilitating health issues that have left him in what he describes as the “worst pain ever.” Taylor’s retirement, confirmed in May 2025, marks the close of a 40-year journey that saw him dominate the sport with an unmatched 16 World Championship titles and 214 professional tournament victories. His heartfelt reflections on his career and the physical toll it has taken have resonated deeply with fans, who are now celebrating the legacy of a true icon.
Taylor’s decision to retire was driven by a persistent hip injury that necessitated surgery in the summer of 2024. The procedure, intended to alleviate arthritis-related pain, instead led to complications, including torn scar tissue that caused excruciating discomfort. “It’s been the worst pain I’ve ever had these last 12 months. Honestly, I’ll be glad when this year is gone,” Taylor shared, describing the agony that intensified after hours of practice or matches. “Practicing, I’ve been okay, but when you’ve been playing for a few hours, there’s this really bad pain in the hip. It’s like having toothache and it drives me crazy, it really does.” The pain, which he called “heartbreaking,” forced him to withdraw from the World Seniors Darts Masters in November 2024, an event meant to be his final competitive appearance. This health setback, coupled with the physical demands of constant travel, ultimately led Taylor to hang up his darts for good.
Born in Stoke-on-Trent in 1960, Taylor’s rise from a working-class background to global stardom is the stuff of legend. He quit his job in the ceramic industry in 1987 to pursue darts full-time, a gamble that paid off spectacularly. His first World Championship win in 1990, defeating mentor Eric Bristow, marked the start of a reign that included eight consecutive titles from 1995 to 2002. Taylor’s record of 16 World Championships, 14 in the PDC, alongside 16 World Matchplay titles and 11 World Grand Prix titles, remains unparalleled. “I tried my best, but he was like me 25 years ago, relentless,” Taylor said after his final professional match, a 7-2 loss to Rob Cross in the 2018 PDC World Championship final, reflecting on the generational shift in the sport.
Taylor initially retired in 2018 but returned in 2022 for the World Seniors Darts Tour, driven by a love for the game and a desire to entertain fans. “I’ll always love performing to the best of my ability, but time waits for no man, and I know now is the right time to step away from the Tour,” he said when announcing his 2024 farewell season. Despite reaching the finals of the World Seniors Masters and Matchplay in 2022, his performances were hampered by health issues, including deteriorating eyesight and the hip pain that plagued his final years. “My mind is still in my teens, but my body is 90,” he admitted, highlighting the toll of a career that demanded relentless dedication.
Beyond his 87 major titles, Taylor’s legacy extends to his role in elevating darts to a global phenomenon. His precision, charisma, and rivalry with players like Michael van Gerwen—who trails him by 11 world titles—captivated audiences. “I would have loved to play Michael in my heyday when I was at my best,” Taylor mused, reflecting on the modern era’s stars. He expressed admiration for young talents like Luke Littler, noting, “I think Luke is a breath of fresh air, he’s great for the game.” Taylor’s contributions off the oche, including mentoring younger players and supporting charities, further cemented his status as a sporting icon.
As Taylor steps away, he remains committed to darts through personal appearances and commentary, eager to stay connected with fans. “As one chapter closes, another one opens,” he said, teasing future projects. His retirement, though “heartbreaking” due to health struggles, is a testament to a career that defied expectations. From a terraced house with no electricity to the bright lights of Alexandra Palace, Taylor’s journey has inspired generations, ensuring “The Power” will forever be synonymous with darts’ golden era.
# Phil Taylor’s Retirement: The End of ‘The Power’ Era in Darts
Phil Taylor, the 16-time World Darts Champion, has officially retired from competitive darts at 64, citing severe hip pain as the “heartbreaking” reason for his exit. “It’s been the worst pain I’ve ever had these last 12 months. Honestly, I’ll be glad when this year is gone,” Taylor said, describing how post-surgery complications, including torn scar tissue, made playing unbearable. “Practicing, I’ve been okay, but when you’ve been playing for a few hours, there’s this really bad pain in the hip. It’s like having toothache and it drives me crazy.”
Taylor, nicknamed “The Power,” dominated darts for over three decades, winning 214 professional tournaments, including 85 major titles and a record 16 World Championships (14 PDC, 2 BDO). His first title came in 1990 against Eric Bristow, followed by eight consecutive wins from 1995 to 2002. His final professional match was a 7-2 loss to Rob Cross in the 2018 PDC World Championship final, where he noted, “I tried my best, but he was like me 25 years ago, relentless.”
After retiring in 2018, Taylor returned for the World Seniors Darts Tour in 2022, reaching finals in the 2022 World Seniors Masters and Matchplay. “I’ll always love performing to the best of my ability, but time waits for no man,” he said when announcing his 2024 farewell season. Health issues, including arthritis and eyesight problems, limited his performance. “My mind is still in my teens, but my body is 90,” he admitted.
Taylor’s legacy includes elevating darts’ global profile and mentoring young players. “I think Luke is a breath of fresh air, he’s great for the game,” he said of Luke Littler. Reflecting on rival Michael van Gerwen, he mused, “I would have loved to play Michael in my heyday.” Taylor plans to stay involved through commentary and appearances, stating, “As one chapter closes, another one opens.” His 40-year career, marked by unmatched records and fan adoration, cements “The Power” as darts’ greatest icon.
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