BRAY: LITTLER WILL NEVER BREAK TAYLOR RECORDS

RUSS BRAY reckons Luke Littler will NEVER break Phil Taylor’s records at the oche.

World No.1 Littler made history by becoming only the fourth player to claim back-to-back World Championship titles, achieving the feat at just 18 years old.

The Warrington whizkid has now collected 10 major titles, trailing only James Wade, Michael van Gerwen and Taylor in the all-time standings.

‘The Power’ dominated the sport across three decades, winning over 200 professional tournaments, including a record 87 majors and a record 16 World Championships.

Legendary referee Bray argues that darts is now too competitive, with elite talent spread far wider than during Taylor’s reign, making sustained domination by Littler unrealistic.

He told talkSPORT: “We had that with Phil, where he dominated the field for so many years.

“I don’t think this will happen, and I really don’t, because there are so many good players now.

“When you look at Gian van Veen, Josh Rock and Luke Humphries, these guys are still only youngsters as well.

“I don’t think he can dominate the same as Phil. Yes, he will win titles left, right and centre, but I think these guys will target the chase.

“Whereas in the early days of Phil, you only had one or two guys who could have a go at him.”

Bray also questioned whether Littler could maintain the hunger and work ethic required to chase Taylor’s records over such a long period.

He added: “For as long as he wants to do it at the moment. Do you get the desire when you have all the fortunes, the money in the bank? Do you want to get up at 8am?

“Then get on a plane and travel to somewhere in the world, come back and then practice?

“It’s as long as he wants that desire. I’m sure he is going to have that for a few years.

“He won’t break Phil Taylor’s records. Never. No one will do that.”

Image by Taylor Lanning.