The world of darts is buzzing with a fascinating question: Is the current era, spearheaded by young sensation Luke Littler, genuinely stronger than the golden age dominated by the legendary Phil “The Power” Taylor, particularly around 2013? While Taylor’s individual brilliance was undeniable, a closer look at the sheer depth of talent, consistent high averages, and the overall quality of play across the board suggests that modern darts has indeed reached an unprecedented level of excellence. Today’s players are hitting higher scores more frequently, making the current era arguably the most competitive and skilled in history.
The Unstoppable Force: Phil Taylor’s Reign in 2013
In 2013, Phil Taylor was still a formidable force, widely considered the greatest darts player of all time. He had just secured his 16th World Championship title at the start of the year, defeating Michael van Gerwen in a classic final. Taylor’s dominance was characterized by:
- Unmatched consistency: Regularly hitting averages well over 100.
- Clinical finishing: His ability to close out legs under pressure was legendary.
- Mental fortitude: Taylor was known for his psychological game, often breaking opponents’ spirits.
While Taylor was at the pinnacle, the talent pool around him, though strong, wasn’t quite as deep as it is today. Key rivals included a rapidly rising Michael van Gerwen, Adrian Lewis, Gary Anderson, and Raymond van Barneveld. These players pushed Taylor, but he often found a way to win, showcasing a level of individual superiority rarely seen.
The Rise of a New Generation: Luke Littler and the Modern Era
Fast forward to today, and the darts landscape looks remarkably different. The emergence of 17-year-old sensation Luke Littler has captivated audiences, not just with his youthful charisma but with his incredible talent. Littler’s journey to the World Championship final immediately signaled a shift, demonstrating that the new generation is not just knocking on the door but bursting through it.
However, Littler is just one star in a sky full of them. The current era boasts an astonishing array of top-tier talent. Consider these factors:
- Depth of talent: Beyond Littler, players like Luke Humphries (the reigning World Champion), Michael van Gerwen (still a dominant force), Michael Smith, Gerwyn Price, Peter Wright, and Nathan Aspinall consistently deliver world-class performances.
- Elevated scoring: It’s no longer just the top few hitting high averages. Many players in the top 32, and even outside it, are regularly posting averages above 95, often breaking the 100-mark.
- Higher standards: The expectation for players to maintain high scoring and clinical finishing has increased significantly. A 90-average, once respectable, is now often not enough to win a single match at a major tournament.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Averages and Consistency
Comparing the eras statistically reveals a compelling trend. While Phil Taylor’s peak averages were extraordinary, the overall consistency and the number of players achieving those high averages have significantly increased in the modern game.
Average Averages:
- In 2013: A 100+ average was a mark of elite performance, primarily achieved by Taylor and a handful of others in big matches.
- In the Current Era: It’s common to see multiple players in a single tournament match hitting 100+ averages, and often losing despite doing so. The bar for a “good” average has risen considerably, with a 95+ average often considered the minimum standard for success at the highest level.
This isn’t just about individual brilliance; it’s about the collective elevation of the sport. Players are training harder, analyzing their game more deeply, and benefiting from improved equipment and coaching techniques. The result is a game where almost every leg requires perfection to win, making for more thrilling and higher-quality contests.
Conclusion: The Unprecedented Strength of Modern Darts
While Phil Taylor’s individual achievements in 2013 and throughout his career remain unparalleled, the modern era of darts, exemplified by talents like Luke Littler and the current crop of champions, presents a stronger, deeper, and more consistently high-quality game. The sheer number of players capable of hitting 100+ averages, the increased consistency in scoring, and the relentless pressure to perform at an elite level every single match points to an undeniable truth: darts, as a sport, has never been stronger. We are witnessing an era where the bar is constantly being raised, making every tournament a showcase of incredible skill and competitive intensity.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
