Phil Taylor issues response to Luke Littler after darts prodigy sets sights on The Power's records

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Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 19/11/2024

- 17:01

Updated: 19/11/2024

- 20:22

Luke Littler won his first major ranking title after claiming the Grand Slam of Darts

Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler's stunning Grand Slam of Darts victory has sparked bold predictions about his potential to surpass Phil Taylor's legendary records.

The 17-year-old secured his first major ranking title on Sunday with a commanding 16-3 win over Martin Lukeman in Wolverhampton.


Following the defeat, Lukeman made a striking declaration about Littler's future prospects.

"If he gets his head on, forget about Michael van Gerwen's records, he's going to beat Phil Taylor's records," Lukeman said.

"If he keeps his head right and stays away from drink and girls, that boy is going to go very far."

Taylor, the 16-time world champion, has now responded to these claims about his records potentially being broken.

Phil Taylor

Phil Taylor has responded to claims Luke Littler is coming for his titles

PA

"I hope not," Taylor told talkSPORT. "I'll tell you what though, if there's anybody that could do it, it's this young lad now."

The 64-year-old acknowledged Littler's unique position to challenge his legacy.

"He's got the age on his side, and he's got the ability, so you never know, you never know," Taylor added.

The comments carry particular weight given that Littler claimed his first major victory at just 17, compared to Taylor's first at age 29.

Taylor also offered insights into Littler's character and motivation.

"Money isn't his motivation, believe it or not, he isn't really that bothered," Taylor revealed.

The darts legend praised Littler's demeanour after spending time with him recently.

"He just sits there, he's quiet as a mouse, he's lovely company to be with, to be honest," Taylor said.

He particularly commended Littler's focus on family rather than financial gain.

"He's more interested in looking after his mother and father in tournaments," Taylor noted, contrasting this with other players whose careers were derailed by monetary success.

Littler's meteoric rise has seen him climb to fifth in the PDC Order of Merit in less than a year.

Luke Littler

Luke Littler is now a millionaire after his latest victory

Sky

The teenager has already amassed £558,500 in prize money and claimed 10 titles this year before his Grand Slam triumph.

His next challenge comes at this week's Players Championship Finals in Minehead.

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Phil Taylor has admitted Luke Littler could best his records

PA

Littler faces Rob Cross in Friday's first round, with £120,000 on offer for the tournament winner.

The young star will then turn his attention to next month's World Championships, where he'll aim to improve on his runner-up finish from January.

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