Durrant backs Taylor over Littler
Former Premier League of Darts winner Glen Durrant has asserted that “Phil Taylor would have found a way to beat Luke Littler,” underscoring his belief in Taylor’s unmatched prowess in the sport, reports BritPanorama.
Durrant, who claimed the Premier League title and reached the World Championship quarter-finals in 2020, spoke to GB News regarding the ascent of the young darts player Luke Littler. He acknowledged that while Littler is talented and may still secure a third world championship before turning 20, he has a substantial way to go to match Taylor’s remarkable tally of 16 world titles.
Despite Littler’s rising status in the darts community, Durrant articulated that, had the two players ever faced off in their primes, Taylor would have emerged victorious. “He was the ultimate. There were no weaknesses,” Durrant maintained, emphasising Taylor’s skill and competitive edge.
In further comments, Durrant highlighted how the culture of the game has evolved, suggesting that modern players often possess a different mentality compared to Taylor’s era. “Phil Taylor would have found a way to beat Littler,” he reiterated, pointing to the banter and camaraderie that Taylor established with peers before matches, something he believes is less prevalent in the current generation.
Durrant also acknowledged the current competitive landscape of darts, noting that the depth and talent in the sport today have increased significantly. This observation served as a backdrop to Littler’s recent defeat to Jonny Clayton in Amsterdam, a loss Durrant suggested was the last chance for Littler to chase a complete sweep of major titles this year.
In a twist of events, Littler has decided to withdraw from two upcoming Players Championship events in the Netherlands, effectively ending his hopes of qualifying for the finals in Minehead this November. This decision follows a controversial episode during his last match where he faced audible booing and whistles from the crowd, prompting discussions about the atmosphere and reception young players face in the sport.
As the darts world watches, the narrative surrounding Littler’s development, juxtaposed with the enduring legacy of Taylor, serves as a reminder of how quickly the dynamics of sport can shift, as emerging talent seeks to contend with the giants of the game.
