
Photo: Andrew King (CC BY-SA 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Phil
Taylor
Career overview
With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, he has set numerous records, including an unparalleled 16 World Darts Championship titles.
Visit the official Phil Taylor site →
Career honours
1World Darts Championship · 16 titles (1990-1992, 1994-1995, 1997-1998, 16
1World Matchplay · 16 titles16
2Jocky Wilson Cup · 2009
2Masters of Darts · 2005
3News of the World Championship · 1997
Records
RMost World Championships Won · 16 titles.
RMost Professional Tournament Wins · Over 200 tournaments.
Biography
Early Life & Origins
Phil Taylor was born in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, in 1960. Growing up in a working-class family, he developed an early interest in darts, which would later become his lifelong passion. His parents, Liz and Doug Taylor, supported his early endeavors, setting the stage for his future success.
Rise to Prominence
Taylor's professional career began in 1988, and he quickly made a name for himself in the darts community. His breakthrough moment came in the early 1990s when he started to dominate the sport, winning his first World Championship in 1990. His relentless pursuit of excellence and remarkable skill set him apart from his competitors.
Playing Style & Technique
Known for his precision and consistency, Taylor's playing style combines a steady hand with a sharp mental focus. His ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different match situations has made him a formidable opponent. Taylor's technique, often described as fluid and efficient, has influenced many aspiring darts players.
Defining Moments & Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Taylor achieved numerous milestones, including 16 World Darts Championship titles and over 200 professional tournament wins. His victory in the 2009 Jocky Wilson Cup and the 2005 Masters of Darts are among his notable triumphs, solidifying his status as a darts icon.
Rivalries & Era Context
Taylor's career featured intense rivalries with fellow darts legends, including Eric Bristow and Raymond van Barneveld. These matchups captivated fans and elevated the sport's popularity, especially during the late 1990s and early 2000s, a golden era for darts.
Legacy & Impact
Phil Taylor's impact on darts is immeasurable. He has inspired a generation of players and contributed to the sport's growth on a global scale. Inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame in 2011, his legacy continues to influence both the competitive landscape and the fan experience in darts.
Stats in detail
Major Titles
Taylor's dominance in major darts tournaments is unparalleled.
| World Darts Championships | 16 titles |
| World Matchplay Titles | 16 titles |
| Jocky Wilson Cup Titles | 1 |
| Masters of Darts Titles | 1 |
| News of the World Championships | 1 |
Tournament Wins
Phil Taylor has won over 200 professional tournaments throughout his career.
| Total Wins | Over 200 |
| PDC Titles | Multiple |
| Other Major Titles | Multiple |
Career timeline
1988Turned professional in darts.
1990Won his first World Darts Championship.
1997Won the News of the World Championship.
2005Claimed the Masters of Darts title.
2009Won the Jocky Wilson Cup.
2011Inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame.
2018Retired after finishing as runner-up in the World Championship.
Head-to-Head
Phil Taylor career moments
- April 7: It features the Deviants Mick Farren on vocals, Andy Colquhoun on guitar, David Ito as the bassist and Taylor
- September 21: Philip John Taylor (21 September 1954 - 12 November 2015), better known as "Philthy Animal", was an English dr
- November 6: Taylor reunited with Lemmy and Clarke on 6 November 2014 at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham, on stage
Latest Taylor News
All 39 stories →
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Phil Taylor’s Winter Gardens reign looms over Luke Littler’s Matchplay title defence

Darts · Match Report
Phil Taylor’s 16 World Matchplay titles loom over 2026 Blackpool showdown

Darts · Club News
Phil Taylor's Final Bow: Cross Triumphs Over Veteran in PDC World Championship

Darts · Player Focus
Phil Taylor’s Legacy Fuels World Matchplay 2026 Preview

Darts · Player Focus
Phil Taylor Inspires Joe Cullen's Stance Adjustment
Frequently asked
What is Phil Taylor's net worth?
Phil Taylor's estimated net worth is around £8.5 million.
How tall is Phil Taylor?
Phil Taylor is 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) tall.
How old is Phil Taylor?
Phil Taylor was born in 1960, making him 65 years old.
Is Phil Taylor retired or still active?
Phil Taylor is retired from professional darts.




