Phil Taylor Advises Luke Littler To Avoid 'Man Utd Syndrome' In World Championship Title Chase

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Phil Taylor believes Luke Littler has the potential to surpass his record of 16 World Championship titles. However, he cautions the young player about the challenges similar to what Manchester United faces. Littler, at just 17, became the youngest winner of the PDC World Championship by defeating Michael van Gerwen. This victory marked his 11th professional title.

Littler's achievements include winning the Premier League on his first attempt and reaching second place in the PDC Order of Merit. He also finished as runner-up to Keely Hodgkinson in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. As the reigning world champion, Littler will compete in his first match at the Bahrain Masters on Thursday, where he is also defending his title.

Taylor, considered one of darts' greatest players, anticipates that opponents will elevate their performance against Littler. He compares this to how football teams play against Manchester United and Liverpool. "If he wants to beat my world record, then he can go ahead and do it," said Taylor, aged 64.

Taylor reflects on his own experience, noting that success at a young age comes with its own set of challenges. "It's difficult when you are young, and you have money in the bank," he explained. Taylor won his first title at 30, having already navigated those early hurdles.

The popularity of darts has surged since Littler emerged on the scene. Taylor acknowledges this change: "Darts has gone crazy. You wouldn't believe the difference since young Luke came along." He expresses admiration for Littler's achievements and appreciates how they have boosted interest in darts.

Taylor holds nothing but respect for Littler and is pleased to see darts gaining such widespread popularity. He remarked, "I have nothing but credit for the lad; I think the world of him." The sport's growing appeal is evident with Littler's rise.