Phil Taylor Speaks for First Time on Luke Littler Surpassing 16 World Titles
Phil Taylor has addressed, for the first time, the growing talk that Luke Littler could one day surpass his record 16 World Darts Championship titles, admitting the teenage sensation has the tools to challenge even the most untouchable achievements in the sport.
Taylor, whose dominance defined an era and set a benchmark many believed would never be threatened, acknowledged that Littler’s early success places him in rare company.
“He’s got the ability, there’s no doubt about that,” Taylor said. “What he’s doing at his age is unbelievable. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Talent is only the beginning
While praising Littler’s natural scoring power and composure on the biggest stages, Taylor was quick to stress that breaking the 16-title record would demand far more than raw talent.
“Winning one World Championship is hard. Winning two or three is even harder,” Taylor explained. “But winning 16 takes years of consistency, hunger and dealing with everyone chasing you season after season.”
Taylor pointed out that longevity — not peak brilliance — was the foundation of his own success, highlighting the physical and mental demands of staying at the top for decades.
A modern great in the making
Taylor also noted that the modern darts landscape, with its relentless schedule and depth of competition, makes sustained dominance more difficult than ever. However, he believes Littler’s mentality sets him apart.
“He doesn’t look fazed by pressure,” Taylor said. “Finals, big crowds, TV — it doesn’t seem to bother him. That’s what the great ones have.”
No pressure, just potential
Despite the comparisons, Taylor was careful not to burden Littler with expectations so early in his career, urging fans to let the young star enjoy his journey.
“Records are there to be talked about, but he doesn’t need to chase them,” he added. “If he keeps enjoying the game and keeps winning, then who knows where he ends up?”
Littler remains focused on the present rather than distant milestones, but with Phil Taylor himself acknowledging the possibility, the idea of someone surpassing 16 world titles no longer sounds impossible — just extraordinarily difficult.
For now, the record still belongs to Taylor. But in Luke Littler, darts may already be watching the only player capable of threatening it.
