Darts icon Raymond van Barneveld has declared Luke Littler the current best player in the world but insists the teenage sensation would have been defeated by the sport's ultimate great, Phil 'The Power' Taylor, in his prime.
The Unstoppable Force vs. The Immovable Object
Van Barneveld's comments come as Luke Littler prepares to continue the defence of his PDC World Darts Championship title. 'The Nuke' faces Mensur Suljovic in his third-round match at Alexandra Palace on Saturday night. Littler, who made history last year by becoming the youngest world champion ever at 17, is once again the man everyone is trying to stop.
While full of admiration for the 18-year-old's meteoric rise, Van Barneveld, a five-time world champion himself, believes the scales would tip in a legendary match-up. Phil Taylor's unparalleled dominance across three decades, which yielded over 200 professional tournament wins, a record 87 major titles, and 16 World Championship crowns, gives him the edge in Barneveld's eyes.
Barneveld's Verdict on a Dream Match
"I admire Phil Taylor more, he was so, so impressive," Barneveld told BoyleSports. "The night he hit the two nine-darters, that was insane. But now I'm watching this young kid, 18 years of age. How unbelievable it is."
He detailed Littler's incredible consistency since bursting onto the scene, noting his victory over Michael van Gerwen in last year's final and his subsequent Premier League Darts triumph. Yet, Barneveld pinpointed a critical tactical difference. "In their primes, I still think Taylor wins. Because Luke likes to play in a certain rhythm, and Phil always controlled the pace himself."
The Dutch legend also reflected on the mental fortitude required at the top, observing Littler's relaxed demeanour. "You never see him in trouble. Everything still goes well for him. But I'm very curious... every player has his worst moments, and maybe those will come."
The Champion's Path and Future Legacy
Despite favouring Taylor in a hypothetical clash, Van Barneveld was unequivocal about Littler's present status. "Luke Littler is the best at the moment, the best player," he stated, referencing the youngster's wins at the World Matchplay and UK Open this year.
He believes Littler is the clear favourite to retain his title and is on a path to join the sport's multiple-world-champion elite. The potential for a rematch of last year's final against world number two Luke Humphries looms, with other contenders like Gian van Veen and Josh Rock also in the mix.
Barneveld's analysis sets up a fascinating 'what if' of sporting eras, celebrating the present king while paying ultimate respect to the undisputed emperor of the oche. All eyes now turn to Ally Pally to see if the present-day 'one to beat' can continue his historic run.
