Phil Taylor tells Luke Humphries how to overthrow Luke Littler and reveals one thing ex-no.1 is missing
Phil Taylor Tells Luke Humphries How to Overthrow Luke Littler — and Reveals the One Thing the Former World No.1 Is Missing
Phil Taylor has offered Luke Humphries some blunt advice on how to dethrone Luke Littler — while also pointing out the one crucial element he believes the former world number one is currently lacking.
The 16-time world champion has been closely watching the rise of Littler, whose rapid ascent and dominant displays have seen him establish himself as the man to beat in darts. But Taylor insists Humphries still has the tools to challenge the teenage sensation — if he makes a key adjustment.
Speaking candidly, Taylor suggested that while Humphries has the scoring power and temperament to compete with Littler, he needs to rediscover a ruthless edge when it matters most.
“Luke’s got everything in his game,” Taylor said of Humphries. “But what he’s missing right now is that killer instinct — that real belief that you’re going to take someone out when the chance is there.”
Taylor explained that Littler’s biggest strength isn’t just his talent, but his mindset. According to The Power, the young star plays without fear and shows no hesitation, even on the biggest stages.
“Littler doesn’t care who he’s playing,” Taylor added. “He just gets on with it. That’s dangerous. If you hesitate against him, you’re done.”
The darts legend believes Humphries must be more aggressive in key moments, particularly on finishing, if he wants to turn the tide in their rivalry.
“You’ve got to put pressure back on him straight away,” Taylor said. “If you miss chances, he’ll punish you. That’s where matches are won and lost.”
Taylor also dismissed the idea that experience alone will be enough to stop Littler, stressing that only confidence and conviction will do the job.
“It’s not about slowing him down or trying to out-think him,” he said. “You’ve got to stand your ground and believe you’re the better player on the night.”
While Humphries has already achieved major success and held the world number one ranking, Taylor believes the current challenge posed by Littler represents a new test — one that requires a slightly different mentality.
“If Luke gets that belief back and becomes more ruthless, he can beat anyone,” Taylor concluded. “But against Littler, you can’t afford doubts.”
The comments add another layer to one of darts’ most compelling modern rivalries, with fans now eagerly watching to see whether Humphries can apply Taylor’s advice — and find the missing ingredient needed to halt Littler’s dominance.
