A former darts world champion has cast doubt on the reigning narrative that Phil Taylor and rising star Luke Littler represent the pinnacle of the sport, suggesting a different player eclipses both. The claim, made by Rob Cross, a two-time world champion himself, posits that Michael van Gerwen possesses an unmatchable ability to find form when it matters most. Cross's assessment directly challenges the widely held view of Littler as the sole contender to Taylor's legacy, offering a contrasting perspective on darting greatness.
Cross, who has shared the stage with both Taylor and Littler, stated that "at the minute, he's the best player I've ever played." This personal conviction centers on Van Gerwen's perceived ability to access an "extra gear" during critical moments. This viewpoint appears to acknowledge Littler's impressive ascent and Taylor's historical dominance, but ultimately elevates Van Gerwen based on head-to-head experience. The assertion implies a nuanced understanding of the pressures and performance demands at the highest level of darts, a space where Cross has significant experience.
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The Legacy of Taylor and the Rise of Littler
The discourse surrounding darts' greatest figures has long been dominated by Phil Taylor, whose record of 16 world titles remains a benchmark. However, the recent emergence of Luke Littler, the youngest player to achieve world number one status, has reignited conversations about legacy and future dominance. Littler's rapid success, including retaining the Grand Slam of Darts in 2025, has led some to speculate he could one day match or surpass Taylor's achievements.
"Luke Littler recently became the youngest ever world number one after winning the 2025 Grand Slam of Darts… Phil Taylor believes there’s only one way other players can beat him."
Phil Taylor himself has weighed in on Littler's meteoric rise, offering insights into how competitors might counter the young star's threat. Taylor suggests that players facing Littler must adapt their own games, indicating that a fundamental shift in strategy or technique may be necessary to challenge him effectively. He has also alluded to a hypothetical showdown, with Taylor backing himself to defeat Littler in a fantasy match-up, citing modern equipment and his own competitive drive. The idea of "childish pranks" being employed by Taylor to disrupt opponents, as recalled by former champion Adrian Lewis, adds a layer of psychological warfare to these legacy discussions.
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Contested Grandeur and Future Forecasts
The debate extends to potential future rivalries. Taylor has identified Peter Wright as a player who could pose a significant "nightmare" for Littler, drawing on their past intense rivalry. This highlights how perceived strengths and historical dynamics influence predictions of future contests. Taylor has also drawn parallels between Littler's current trajectory and the challenges faced by teams like Manchester United, suggesting that increased scrutiny and the elevation of opponents' games could present unique obstacles.
Taylor’s reflections on his own career and his "Mount Rushmore" of darts, which includes names like Eric Bristow, Dennis Priestley, and Michael van Gerwen, provide context for his evaluation of current talent. The emphasis on playing on "new boards" where performance might be enhanced, and the need for players to "perform, entertain, and put bums on seats," points to a broader understanding of what constitutes a darting great beyond mere statistics. The emergence of players like Matthew Edgar and Nathan Rafferty as potential talents is also noted, indicating an ongoing evolution of the sport's landscape.
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