PHIL TAYLOR thinks that Luke Littler has the youthful spirit and talent to possibly surpass his record of 16 world titles.
Nonetheless, Taylor has shared two vital pieces of advice for the rising star to maintain his success — selecting the right shoes and using a personal mattress topper.
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At just 17 years old, Littler made history by becoming the youngest world champion, clinching the title with a 7-3 win over three-time Alexandra Palace champion Michael van Gerwen.
This landmark achievement wraps up an outstanding debut year on the professional circuit for Littler, during which he has claimed 11 titles and currently stands second in the world rankings.
While he is still considerably behind Taylor’s impressive 16 championships — a feat that is 11 titles above any other player in the sport — Taylor was 29 when he claimed his first title, defeating the late Eric Bristow 6-1 in 1990. He understands that Littler’s moment is just beginning.
Now 64, Taylor shared: “Ultimately, it’s up to Luke to determine how long he wants to compete, the level of commitment he wishes to apply, and how many titles he will achieve.
“For now, let him just play.
“He’s a world champion at merely 17, achieving this milestone by a significant margin; he’s genuinely remarkable.
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Luke Littler’s Prize Money Summary
Here’s a summary of the prize money Luke Littler has won following his victory in the 2025 PDC World Darts Championship:
World Championship 2025 – £500,000
World Championship 2024 – £200,000
Grand Slam of Darts 2024 – £150,000
European Tour – £91,000
Player Championship Events – £71,500
Players Championship Finals Runner-Up – £60,000
UK Open 2023 + 2024 – £17,500
World Matchplay – £10,000
World Grand Prix – £7,500
European Championship – £7,500
(Unranked) Premier League Darts – £315,000
TOTAL: £1.43 million
“When asked about the number of world titles he might achieve, it’s crucial to remember that he has nearly limitless time if he opts for it.
“I was close to 30 when I secured my first world championship — and Paul Lim earned more for hitting a nine-darter than I did for winning the entire event.
Luke Littler’s brother shares how the family plans to celebrate the 17-year-old’s incredible World Darts Championship victory
“Winning 16 titles across 23 years demanded incredible dedication and many sacrifices.
“Only Luke knows, in his heart, whether he’s prepared to put in the necessary work, and it’s entirely up to him if he captures another title, or five, or 15, 16, 17 — perhaps even surpassing my record.
“He is certainly young enough to accomplish it.”
Taylor, who had a professional career lasting 31 years, understands the commitment required in the sport.
He officially retired in 2024 after participating in the senior tour.
Littler has already encountered the intense pressure of being one of the top players globally.
Last year, he competed in nearly 200 matches on the tour — an extraordinary feat for someone so young in his rookie season.
Taylor expounded: “If I were to give him just one piece of advice to help him maintain his leading position, it wouldn’t be related to his darts skills or how he performs on the oche.
“I would recommend that he focuses on his footwear.
“If you can’t stand comfortably on the oche, you won’t hit a target as small as your little fingernail, so ensure your shoes fit perfectly — and bring two or three pairs wherever you go.
“And remember to sleep. Make sure you get enough rest.
“I still take a mattress topper with me everywhere because some hotel beds feel like sleeping on a highway. Your darts won’t go where you want them to if you’re sleep-deprived and groggy from a poor night’s sleep.”
As Littler embarks on his journey as the newly crowned world champion, the expectations will rise dramatically.
He will be anticipated to win in almost every forthcoming event and has already been named the favorite for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year — after coming in second to Keely Hodgkinson last month.
Taylor concluded: “Let’s celebrate his accomplishment. Let’s acknowledge a young talent who stands at the forefront of his sport, and we can reflect on his achievements later when he chooses to retire.
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“Yet if he continues to compete at 40, it will signify that he has acquired several more titles.
“The younger generation is undaunted, even somewhat bold. They do not approach you with respect for your accomplishments but rather as a challenge to overcome.”
Littler has opted to take a break from competitive play until the Bahrain Darts Masters.
He acknowledges that he will now face what is colloquially termed the ‘Manchester United syndrome’ whenever he takes the stage in 2025.
It’s understandable that Littler craves a rest — and some quality sleep — after returning to Warrington from a unique three-week tour in London.
He has indicated that he will NOT practice before defending the title he secured last year on January 16.
Littler, who enjoys playing on his Xbox, smiled: “I don’t really feel like practicing. I just want to unwind!
“It will likely follow the same pattern as last year, leading up to the Bahrain Masters — I won’t touch my darts.
“I didn’t know much about Bahrain, but once we landed, a few hours into the flight, I discovered it to be a very lovely place.
“Winning the first title of 2024 indicated ‘I’m here on the World Series’.
“Furthermore, it’s my opportunity to prove that my World Championship victory was not just a stroke of luck.
“But I understand that darts are gaining more popularity in Bahrain.”
The Crown Prince of Bahrain has developed a keen interest in the sport after witnessing Littler achieve his first professional nine-darter against Nathan Aspinall during last year’s event.
Promoter Barry Hearn disclosed: “He attended the Bahrain Darts Masters as a spectator, casually dressed, and no one recognized him — and he is the Prime Minister and Crown Prince!
“He saw Luke Littler’s nine-darter from the audience and became fascinated with darts, stating: ‘This has been one of the most enjoyable nights I’ve ever had.’
“We are currently discussing the potential to organize significant events in Bahrain — focusing less on the professional level and more on grassroots initiatives.
“That’s essential — they represent the future audience.”
Littler will mark his 18th birthday on January 21, and speculation within the sport suggests that opponents may feel emboldened to engage in mind games, having previously held back due to his youth.
Taylor frequently refers to the Manchester United effect during Sir Alex Ferguson’s era.
The Power remarked: “United never faced straightforward matches. I never had an easy match because every opponent delivered their best performance against me.”
As a Manchester United supporter, Littler relates to this comparison.
He noted: “Perhaps I will need to elevate my game against my rivals.
“I realize from the very first leg that, no matter who I’m up against, this is their championship moment, and I must be prepared from the start.”
