Phil Taylor officially announces retirement from darts

Phil Taylor has officially called time on his illustrious playing career, confirming he will no longer be playing in exhibitions or televised events.

Taylor, 64, retired from professional competition following the 2018 World Championship final before competing in various World Seniors events between 2022 and 2024.

Widely regarded as the greatest player of all-time, Taylor racked up more than 200 professional titles, including 87 majors across both the BDO and PDC in a glittering career spanning four decades.

As well as laser eye surgery, the 16-time World Champion also underwent a hip operation last summer and has been unable to commit to regular practice time during his recovery.

On Tuesday, Taylor posted a statement on his official website to confirm he has hung up his arrows for good.

The announcement follows a recent incident where some fans were left disappointed after attending a high-profile exhibition expecting to see Taylor play.

Taylor was reportedly “horrified” to learn the event had been advertised as featuring him playing, when promoters had been informed months earlier this would not be the case.

Taylor said: “After a long and fantastic career over the last 40 years, I announce that from today I am retiring from playing darts. It has been a privilege to be part of such a vibrant and passionate community.

“I would like to thank each and everyone for your support through this incredible journey. Your encouragement and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind my success. A journey which has enabled me to achieve more than I could have ever imagined.

“I am grateful for the friendships I’ve formed and the experiences I’ve shared.

“As one chapter closes, another one opens. This transition opens up new opportunities for me to explore and engage with the sport in different ways.

“I look forward to meeting fans old and new around the country and I will continue to update the website with future announcements. Please stay tuned for upcoming events, appearances, and projects that I am excited to undertake.

“Thank you once again for all the wonderful memories.”

Taylor has continued to appear at exhibitions in a non-playing capacity, meeting fans and participating in live Q&As on stage, and has also been a pundit for TNT Sports during their coverage of BetGoodwin World Seniors Darts.

He is also in the midst of a seven-date ‘Evening With’ tour this month in which he chats about his darting journey from a local player in Stoke to the most decorated player in the sport’s history.