“They mustn’t know that much about darts”: Adrian Lewis calls out disrespect of Phil Taylor v Luke Littler comparisons
Adrian Lewis Slams Phil Taylor vs. Luke Littler Comparisons: “They Don’t Know Darts”
Adrian Lewis, gearing up for a return at the MODUS Super Series this summer, didn’t hold back in a recent interview in Ipswich—taking aim at comparisons between darting legend Phil Taylor and young sensation Luke Littler.
While Lewis has been busy with exhibition appearances and preparing behind the scenes, he used the sit-down to address what he sees as a growing trend of disrespect toward Taylor’s legacy.
“It’s leg-on-leg pressure—that’s what Phil Taylor brought every time,” Lewis told Online Darts. “Sure, Luke’s highs at the World Championship might top Phil’s, but his average, his ‘B-game’? It’s not on the same level. That’s where Phil would strike—when you dropped off, even slightly.”
He continued, “Whoever’s making these comments clearly doesn’t know darts if they haven’t seen Phil at his best. We’ve been there, right in front of it. He was relentless.”
Lewis on His Comeback
Lewis revealed his official return is set for June, though he hinted it wouldn’t be a full-week commitment. He’s been working closely with Target Darts, fine-tuning equipment in ways he wasn’t able to during his competitive prime.
“Before, I just showed up with a basic dart and got on with it. Now I’ve got time to experiment. Anyone can throw a dart—but doing it consistently? That’s the real test.”
Praise for Littler – With a Caveat
Despite his criticisms of the Taylor-Littler comparisons, Lewis did commend Littler’s talent, calling him “a different level,” while also noting a shift in the sport’s culture.
“Right now, the only one who can match him is Gezzy [Gerwyn Price]. Everyone else seems off their A-game around him. That aura? I’ve only felt that from Phil and MVG. But these days, it’s all fistbumps and polite play—I hope it doesn’t go full robot. You need characters.”
He concluded with support for rising prize money in the sport:
“People don’t realize the sacrifices involved. Earning a million? It’s deserved.”
