PHIL TAYLOR asserts that Luke Littler possesses the youthful vigor and talent necessary to possibly surpass his record of 16 world titles.

Nevertheless, Taylor has offered two vital pieces of advice to the young star for continuing his success — selecting appropriate footwear and using a personal mattress topper.

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Seventeen-year-old Littler etched his name in history by becoming the youngest world champion on Friday, clinching victory with a 7-3 win against three-time Alexandra Palace champion Michael van Gerwen.

This groundbreaking victory caps off an incredible debut year on the professional circuit for Littler, who has claimed 11 titles and currently stands second in the world rankings.

Although he still has a long way to go to catch up to Taylor’s remarkable 16 championships — a tally that is 11 titles ahead of any other player in the sport — Taylor won his first title at the age of 29, defeating the late Eric Bristow 6-1 in 1990. He recognizes that Littler’s journey is just beginning.

Now 64, Taylor reflected: “Ultimately, the decision of how long Luke wants to compete, the dedication he intends to commit, and how many titles he can achieve rests entirely with him.

“For now, he should just play.

“At just 17, he’s a world champion and has achieved this milestone by a massive margin; he’s simply exceptional.

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Luke Littler’s Prize Money Overview

Here’s a summary of the prize money Luke Littler has secured 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 considering how many world titles he might achieve, it’s essential to note that he has nearly limitless time ahead of him if he prefers it.

“I was close to 30 when I won my first world championship — and Paul Lim earned more for achieving a nine-darter than I did for winning the entire tournament.

Luke Littler’s brother shares the family’s plans to celebrate the 17-year-old’s remarkable World Darts Championship victory

“Claiming 16 titles over 23 years took immense dedication and many sacrifices.

“Only Luke can truly know if he’s prepared to commit the necessary effort, and it’s completely his choice whether he wins another title, or five, or 15, 16, 17 — or maybe even exceed my record.

“He certainly has the youth to accomplish it.”

Taylor, who had a prestigious career spanning 31 years, understands the endurance required in the sport.

He officially retired in 2024 after participating in the senior tour.

Littler is already confronting the high expectations associated with being among the elite players globally.

Last year, he competed in nearly 200 matches on the tour — an extraordinary feat for someone so young in his rookie year.

Taylor explained: “If there’s just one piece of advice I could offer him to help maintain his top rank, it wouldn’t involve his darts skills or footwork on the oche.

“I’d suggest he take care of his shoes.

“If you’re not standing 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 with you wherever you go.

“Also, don’t forget to rest. Make sure you get enough sleep.

“I still carry a mattress topper with me everywhere because some hotel beds feel like trying to sleep on a highway. Your darts won’t go where you want them to if you’re sleep-deprived and groggy from a restless night.”

With Littler stepping into his role as the newly crowned world champion, the pressure is set to intensify.

He will be expected to achieve victory in almost every forthcoming event and is already the front-runner for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year — after finishing second to Keely Hodgkinson last month.

Taylor remarked: “Let’s appreciate his accomplishment. Let’s celebrate a young talent who stands at the zenith of his sport, and we can reflect on his achievements later when he decides to retire.

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“However, if he continues to compete at 40, it will indicate he has likely won several more titles.

“The younger crowd is fearless, almost daring. They don’t approach you with reverence toward your achievements but as a challenge to surpass.”

Littler has chosen to pause competitive play until he participates in the Bahrain Darts Masters.

He acknowledges that he will now be aware of what is often referred to as the ‘Manchester United syndrome’ whenever he takes the stage in 2025.

It’s understandable that Littler desires a break — and some quality sleep — after returning to Warrington from a historic three-week tour in London.

He has indicated he will NOT practice prior to defending the title he won last year on January 16.

Littler, who enjoys gaming 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 pick up my darts.

“I wasn’t familiar with Bahrain, but once we landed, a few hours into the flight, I found it to be a very lovely place.

“Winning the first title of 2024 indicated ‘I’m here in the World Series’.

“Moreover, it’s my chance to prove that my World Championship victory was not just a fluke.

“But I know that darts are gaining immense popularity in Bahrain.”

The Crown Prince of Bahrain has developed a strong interest in the sport after witnessing Littler achieve his first professional nine-darter against Nathan Aspinall during last year’s event.

Promoter Barry Hearn shared: “He attended the Bahrain Darts Masters as a spectator, dressed casually, and no one recognized him — and he is the Prime Minister and Crown Prince!

“He observed Luke Littler’s nine-darter from the audience and was captivated by darts, stating: ‘This has been one of the most enjoyable nights I’ve ever experienced.’

“We are now in discussions about the potential for arranging major events in Bahrain — focusing less on the professional ranks and more on grassroots initiatives.

“That’s crucial — they represent the future audience.”

Littler will celebrate his 18th birthday on January 21, and speculation within the sport suggests that competitors may feel emboldened to engage in psychological games, as they previously held back due to his youth.

Taylor frequently references the Manchester United effect during Sir Alex Ferguson’s era.

The Power remarked: “United never faced an easy match. I never faced an easy match because every opponent brought their best performance against me.”

As a Manchester United supporter, Littler resonates with this comparison.

He stated: “Perhaps I will need to elevate my game against my rivals.

“I recognize from the very first leg that, regardless of my opponent, this is their championship moment, and I must be prepared from the onset.”