Darts legend Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor, a 16-time World Champion, has hinted at a sensational return to the oche, despite retiring in 2018. Now 66, Taylor reveals he’s practicing daily and has undergone a significant lifestyle transformation, embracing a teetotal, healthy diet and dedicated gym routine. While admitting his form isn’t what it once was, he’s determined to sharpen up. Taylor also shared invaluable advice for rising star Luke Littler on managing fame and prioritizing rest.
Is ‘The Power’ Gearing Up for a Shock Comeback?
After stepping away from professional darts following his 2018 World Championship final loss to Rob Cross, many believed Phil Taylor had thrown his last competitive dart. However, the man widely regarded as the greatest darts player of all time isn’t ruling out a return to the big stage.
“Yeah, we will play little odd things for fun. I am practising for about an hour a day,” Taylor revealed, sparking excitement among fans. While he acknowledges the challenges of age, his dedication is clear.
“My form isn’t like it used to be. I just have to sharpen up a little bit. Everything changes as you get older,” he admitted. “I am 66 now so your body changes. I am training a lot now and doing gym work. I’m trying to get back as I used to do. I am eating very healthy. We will see what happens now, see if I can get my form back.”
Taylor remains realistic about his current level, stating, “I am playing alright but not like I could. I couldn’t beat the two Lukes [Littler and Humphries] at the minute or Chris Dobey or whatever. I can hold my own in a pub league.” This humble assessment underscores his understanding of the current elite standard, yet hints at a desire to bridge that gap.
A Transformed Legend: Taylor’s New Lifestyle
These surprising comments follow a profound personal transformation for Phil Taylor. He has completely overhauled his lifestyle, focusing on health and well-being. Key changes include:
- Embracing a teetotal lifestyle: Completely abstaining from alcohol.
- Adopting a clean Mediterranean-style diet: Prioritizing fresh, wholesome foods.
- Committing to a dedicated home gym routine: Regular physical training to improve his fitness.
- Retiring from intense competitive circuits: Reducing travel stress and focusing on family time.
This holistic approach to health suggests that any potential comeback would be built on a foundation of improved physical and mental conditioning, rather than just raw talent alone.
Words of Wisdom for Luke Littler
Beyond his own potential return, Taylor, ever the mentor, also offered valuable advice to the sport’s newest sensation, Luke Littler. With Littler’s meteoric rise to fame, Taylor emphasized the importance of self-preservation:
- “Once you become famous, you have to learn to say no; you have to be a little bit selfish.“
- “You need your rest, so get plenty of sleep. If you are tired, you’re not going to perform properly.“
- “You have to upset people. You have to say ‘No, sorry, I have to get ready for this’.“
- “I would say select what you are doing – which he is doing.”
This counsel is particularly timely for Littler, who recently experienced a rare dip in form, failing to secure a clean sweep of major titles this season. Taylor’s insights, drawn from decades at the top, highlight the crucial balance between professional demands and personal well-being – a lesson even the most talented young players must learn.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
