Luke Littler: I have the ability to break Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor’s world title record | News about darts
Luke Littler said Sky Sports he “has the ability” to break Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor’s astonishing record of 16 world darts titles.
Littler became the youngest world champion with a 7-3 defeat of Michael van Gerwen in the final at Alexandra Palace on Friday.
The 17-year-old has been on a meteoric rise since his sensational run to the World Championship final last year, capping off 10 titles in his first year on the pro circuit by winning the biggest prize of all for the second time since asking.
Asked what is next for him Sky Sports News the day after the final, the teenager was name-checking Taylor and his tally – 11 world titles more than any other player in history – as the player he has the potential to break.
“Deep down, if I want to try to break Phil Taylor’s record, then I’m sure I have the ability to do it,” Littler said.
“If I want to, I’m sure I’ll do it.
“I just need to keep going. The calendar is lined up throughout the year.
“I’ve said in previous interviews that I’d be happy to win all the major titles in my career, but obviously I’d like to add world titles.
“In the family section when we come to the break, it was really nice to see so many moms, dads, kids in my shirts during the tournament.
“It’s been a long three weeks here in London, I can’t wait to go home, relax, obviously I’m not going to isolate myself from everyone, just be with my family and text my friends. And obviously I love my Xbox, so I’ll see who’s online.
“Just go back to normal and don’t make anyone change what I’m doing.”
Littler: Beckham texts me after the win | I’ll bring the World Cup trophy to Old Trafford if they get in touch
With his historic victory, Littler broke the record for the youngest winner, previously held by his opponent Van Gerwen when he won the World Championship against Peter Wright in 2014 at the age of 24.
A huge Manchester United fan, Littler also revealed he has spoken to one of the club’s legends David Beckham following his success at Alexandra Palace, adding that he would parade the trophy at Old Trafford if called upon.
“To see David Beckham watching it, it seems crazy,” said the 17-year-old.
“He said, ‘Wow, well done,’ and I said, ‘Thank you.’
“It just shows how much good I’ve done for the sport. Not just for myself, but for the other hundreds of professionals out there.
“Taking the first title, if I’m going to end up with nothing in 2025, at least I picked up the big one right at the start.
“Maybe (bring the trophy to Old Trafford). I’m just glad to beat Stephen [Bunting] because I’m sure he would be at Anfield [on Sunday for Liverpool vs Manchester United, live on Sky Sports]without a doubt.
“If they [Manchester United] get in touch, I’ll take the opportunity to take the trophy to Old Trafford.”
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Watch all the action from Premier League on Sky Sports with Luke Littler wants to defend his title. The new Premier League season will kick off in Belfast on Thursday 6 February as darts’ biggest party returns to an unchanged line-up of 17 venues across the UK and Europe.
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