Darts legend Phil Taylor has offered a rare insight into what he believes is Luke Littler’s “only weakness”, as the teenage superstar continues to dominate the sport and rewrite its record books. With Littler sweeping up major titles and dismantling the world’s best with fearless scoring power, many fans and pundits insist he is close to “unbeatable.” But Taylor, a 16-time world champion and the most decorated player in darts history, insists there is a way to defeat him—if rivals are brave enough to try.
According to Taylor, Littler’s explosive style and relentless confidence often intimidate opponents before a match even begins. But the darts icon believes the one area where Littler can still be exposed is when players refuse to get dragged into his fast, rhythm-heavy pace.
“The only way to beat him is to break his rhythm,” Taylor explained. “Littler loves fast games. He wants you to play his tempo, get into a scoring race, and pressure you with 180s. If you match that pace, you’re finished.”
Taylor argues that Littler is at his most dangerous when opponents allow him to settle into his natural flow—rapid throwing, quick scoring bursts, and non-stop pressure. In contrast, players who deliberately slow the tempo can disrupt his timing and force him into less comfortable territory.
“If someone slows him down, makes him think a little more, resets the rhythm—he’s not as effective,” Taylor said. “That’s not a criticism. Every great player has something that can unsettle them. With Luke, it’s pace.”
Taylor also noted that experience still plays a role. Littler’s composure has been widely praised, but the darts legend believes older, seasoned professionals may have an advantage if they can control the match tempo and avoid being intimidated by the teenager’s power scoring.
“The lad is a phenomenon, but he’s still young,” Taylor added. “If someone can stick with him early on, slow it down, and turn it into a tactical battle instead of a sprint, that’s the blueprint.”
Despite identifying this “only weakness,” Taylor reiterated his admiration for Littler’s incredible rise, describing him as the future of the sport.
“He’s unbelievable. Once he tightens up those small things, he’ll be even harder to beat. But right now, rhythm is the key. Stop his rhythm, and you’ve got a chance.”
So far, few players have managed to execute that strategy effectively—leaving Littler’s rivals with both a warning and a challenge from one of the sport’s greatest-ever minds.
