The Power dismisses talk of retirement

PHIL TAYLOR has no plans to retire from darts after beating Michael van Gerwen in dramatic fashion to clinch his 16th world title.

The 52-year-old recovered from 2-0 and 4-2 down against the Dutchman to claim the inaugural Sid Waddell Trophy in the final of Ladbrokes World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.

Taylor’s high-quality 7-4 victory brought to a close a tournament that saw him both struggle with illness and become involved in ugly spat at the oche.

An ill-advised altercation with Raymond van Barneveld after their semi-final encounter was the trigger for the Stoke thrower to admit he was seriously considering his future in the sport.

But yesterday he revealed that rest rather than retirement was now his aim, and admitted his career could continue beyond the age of 55.

“I’m not going to walk away. I’m going to have a little break, obviously. I need a bit of a rest now,” he said.

“I’m going to do a promotion in Dubai this month, so I’m going to take that as a holiday. I’m going to relax and get ready for the Premier League next.

“I’ve been written off more times than Rocky Balboa I think.

“I’m not going to give in – I’m going to keep going and show them I’m still dedicated.”

Taylor, who has frequently said he might retire at 55, admits the rush from Tuesday’s comeback could sway him to change his mind.

“That was my plan in life, even when I was working in a factory,” he said. “I’m going to see how I feel over the next two or three years – if I feel OK at 55 then I will carry on.”

His rally to beat 23-yearold Van Gerwen saw him become the first recipient of a new trophy named after late darts commentator Sid Waddell, a close personal friend.

“It’s extra special,” Taylor added. “He was probably my best friend in darts, along with Eric Bristow. I do miss him dearly.”

Picture: PA. Phil Taylor.