Van Gerwen says Taylor should retire

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN reckons Phil Taylor should retire as the darts legend prepares to return to competitive action next month.

The 16-time world champion is set to team up with close pal Adrian Lewis at the MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament from November 23-28.

Taylor, 66, retired from the PDC circuit in 2018 after suffering a 7-2 defeat to Rob Cross in the World Championship final.

The Power later competed on the World Seniors Darts Tour from its inaugural season in 2022 until the end of 2024 but failed to win a title before stepping away from the game on medical advice.

But Van Gerwen has questioned whether Taylor should be making another comeback.

He said on stream: “I don’t know what I have to think about it. I think he should retire to be honest.”

Former pro Vincent van der Voort also fears Taylor will struggle to rediscover his best form following his hip operation.

He added: “I think it’s going to be really difficult to get a decent level because of his operation on his hip and everything.

“Too much practice, he is going to stand different. He's not going to have the power anymore.

“It’s going to be real difficult for him to get a decent level.”

Taylor is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in darts history, having won a record 87 major titles during his remarkable career.

Lewis, meanwhile, claimed the world championship in 2011 and 2012, and the pair will now join forces yet again.

The pair famously teamed up for England at the PDC World Cup of Darts, winning the title a record FOUR times.

Image: Taylor Lanning