‘Don’t tell Luke Littler… but I’d win’ – Legend Phil Taylor backs himself to beat darts sensation in dream showdown
Phil Taylor Confident in Victory Over Luke Littler: “Don’t Tell Him… But I’d Win”
Darts legend Phil Taylor, the 16-time world champion widely regarded as the greatest player in PDC history, has boldly claimed he would defeat teenage sensation Luke Littler in a hypothetical dream showdown, humorously adding, “Don’t tell Luke Littler… but I’d win.” The 64-year-old Taylor, who retired in 2018 but remains a dominant force in exhibitions and senior events, shared this confident prediction in an interview with The Sun, reflecting on Littler’s meteoric rise and the generational gap between them. Taylor’s backing of himself underscores his enduring belief in his superior experience and precision, even against “The Nuke,” who at 18 has already claimed a world title, Premier League crown, and World Matchplay victory in 2025.
Taylor’s Reasoning: Experience Over Youth
Taylor, nicknamed “The Power,” emphasized his vast match-winning pedigree—over 200 professional titles and a record 72 major wins—as the edge he holds. “Luke’s incredible, a once-in-a-generation talent, but in a straight 501 or a proper match, my consistency and doubles game would wear him down,” Taylor reportedly said, drawing from his own observations of Littler’s aggressive style. He praised Littler’s nine-darters and high averages but noted the mental fortitude required in longer formats, where Taylor’s unbeaten streaks (like 72-match wins from 2002-2006) shine. The “don’t tell” quip adds levity, suggesting Taylor respects Littler’s potential while playfully asserting dominance.
This isn’t Taylor’s first nod to Littler; he’s previously called him a “future legend” and predicted he’d surpass records, but in a head-to-head, Taylor’s self-belief prevails. Littler, fresh off a Players Championship 27 last-16 run but nursing an elbow issue that forced a PC 28 withdrawal, has idolized Taylor, once saying, “Phil’s the GOAT—beating him would be a dream.”
Hypothetical Showdown Context
A Taylor-Littler matchup remains a fan fantasy, as Taylor competes in senior tours and exhibitions (e.g., his 2025 BetVictor Senior Darts Masters win). Littler’s 2025 dominance—youngest world champ (7-3 over Michael van Gerwen in January), Triple Crown holder—fuels “what if” debates. Taylor’s last competitive peak was 2013 (world title at 53), but his exhibition averages often hit 100+, rivaling pros.
| Player | Key Achievements | Strengths in Dream Match |
|——–|——————|————————–|
| **Phil Taylor** | 16 world titles; 214 pro wins | Experience, doubles precision, mental toughness. |
| **Luke Littler** | 2025 World Champ; Premier League & Matchplay winner | Youthful power, nine-darters, high averages (102+). |
Fan and Expert Reactions
Social media erupted with amusement and debate after The Sun’s coverage, with #TaylorVsLittler trending. Fans split: “Phil’s the king—Littler needs more years!” vs. “Nuke’s too explosive; Taylor’s era is over.” PDC icons like van Gerwen have echoed Taylor’s confidence, saying Littler “still has to prove it against the old guard.” Littler, focused on World Grand Prix prep (vs. Gian van Veen in R1), hasn’t responded directly but has withdrawn from PC 28 to manage his elbow, risking his Minehead spot.
At 64, Taylor’s bravado keeps him relevant, while Littler’s trajectory suggests a real clash could redefine darts history. For now, it’s all talk—but Taylor’s walking the walk in his mind.
