Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has firmly stated that he cannot be considered the greatest player in the sport's history until he surpasses the legendary achievements of Phil Taylor. The reigning world champion, aged just 19, responded to high praise from rival Luke Humphries by acknowledging the monumental benchmark set by the 14-time world champion.
Humphries' Praise and Littler's Humble Response
Following his defeat to Littler in the World Masters final, world number two Luke Humphries described the young champion as "the greatest darts player that ever lived". However, Littler was quick to deflect this accolade, insisting Taylor's legacy remains untouchable for now. "It's just he is the greatest, unless I go on and win 16 worlds and 16 matchplays," Littler explained. "Seventeen, get one over him then yes, I'll be the best. But until someone breaks his records, then he'll always be the best."
Humphries Clarifies His Comments
Speaking at the same event where Littler launched his BetMGM Premier League title defence in Newcastle, Humphries qualified his earlier remarks but stood by his assessment of Littler's extraordinary talent. "Phil having achieved so much, it's kind of harsh to not call him the greatest, so maybe I used the wrong term," Humphries conceded. "But I definitely still stand by the fact he is the most talented darts player ever, not just his ability to throw good darts, it's his temperament, it's his way of being so good under pressure and to bounce back, all the credentials."
Littler's Ambitious Goals for 2026
Despite his youthful age, Littler has set clear and ambitious targets for the coming year. Having lost his Premier League title to Humphries last year, regaining that crown is a primary objective. However, his main financial ambition is particularly striking. "The worlds is £500,000, so as long as I can win £500,000 before the worlds, then going into the worlds, I've got really nothing to lose on the rankings," Littler revealed, outlining a strategy to secure substantial earnings before even arriving at the World Championship.
A Rivalry in the Making
Humphries, who has his own goal of reaching darts' all-time top five before retirement, acknowledged the special dynamic developing between the two top-ranked players. "We're the best two players in the world and we both push each other – that final in the Masters was amazing – but I know we can play even better than that, we've proved it," he said. "For us as players, it's exciting, it is a rivalry that's exciting. If we're battling it out like this for another 10 years, then it probably will go down as one of the greatest ones ever."
As Littler prepares to face Gian van Veen in Newcastle, the darts world watches a champion who recognises the historical weight of Taylor's accomplishments while methodically pursuing his own place in the sport's pantheon. His respectful deference to Taylor's legacy, combined with clear-eyed ambition, suggests a champion who understands that true greatness is measured in titles and longevity, not just fleeting praise.
