Phil "The Power" Taylor, the legendary 16‑time world darts champion, is preparing to step back onto the competitive stage for a special appearance at the MODIS Super Series International Pairs Tournament, scheduled for late November. The 66‑year‑old, who hung up his darts in 2018 after a storied career that culminated in a final world title five years earlier, has agreed to team up with longtime friend and fellow former world champion Adrian Lewis for the six‑day event running from November 23 to November 28. Taylor’s decision to return was not taken lightly. In recent months he has been honing his throw in the informal setting of a local pub and has even installed a brand‑new dartboard in his own home to keep his skills sharp.
Yet the prospect of sharing the oche with Lewis proved compelling enough to lure him out of retirement, even if the comeback is intended as a one‑off rather than a full‑time return to the professional circuit. "I've been asked plenty of times about coming back, but it would have to be for the right reason," Taylor explained in a recent interview. "Adrian is one of the very few people I'd come out of retirement to play alongside, and the MODIS Super Series is the place I wanted to do it.
We've got a lot of history together, we know each other's games inside out, and I'm looking forward to getting back up there with him." The partnership between Taylor and Lewis is steeped in history. The duo previously joined forces to claim four World Cup of Darts titles for England, delivering memorable moments that fans still talk about. Lewis echoed Taylor’s enthusiasm, saying, "Phil and I have shared some brilliant moments playing together over the years.
So to get the chance to do it again is really special. We know what it takes to win as a pair and I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do together." Taylor’s recent health update adds another layer to the story. Earlier this year he underwent a successful hip replacement, a procedure that could have ended many athletes' careers. Instead, the former champion reported a smooth recovery and expressed confidence that his physical condition will not hinder his performance in the upcoming pairs competition.
The MODIS Super Series itself is not part of the official Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar, but it has earned a reputation for attracting a diverse and exciting roster of international talent. While the full entry list will be disclosed on October 10, organizers have hinted at a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, promising a high‑octane spectacle for fans worldwide. For viewers eager to follow the action, the tournament will be broadcast across multiple platforms. The second day of the World Grand Prix, another marquee darts event, will be shown live on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Main Event from 6 p.m.
on Tuesday, with daily coverage continuing through to the final on Sunday. Additionally, fans can explore the latest Sky Sports subscription deals or opt for a contract‑free streaming option via NOW.
Beyond the immediate excitement of the Taylor‑Lewis pairing, their comeback raises broader questions about the longevity of darts professionals and the allure of exhibition‑style events. Darts, unlike many high‑impact sports, allows players to compete at a high level well into their 50s and 60s, provided they maintain steady practice and manage any physical ailments. Taylor’s return underscores how the sport’s mental precision and strategic depth can keep seasoned players relevant, even after stepping away from the rigors of the full tour. The upcoming MODIS Super Series will also serve as a testing ground for newer formats and innovations in darts presentation.
Organizers have invested in a more accessible video player that works best with Chrome, ensuring smoother streaming for a global audience. This technical upgrade reflects a broader industry trend toward enhancing fan experience through better digital platforms, something that has become especially important in the post‑pandemic era when many viewers rely on online streams rather than traditional television. In summary, Phil Taylor’s brief re‑entry into competitive darts, alongside Adrian Lewis, promises to be a headline‑grabbing moment for the sport. Their shared history, combined with Taylor’s recent health improvements and the growing prestige of the MODIS Super Series, sets the stage for a memorable tournament.
Whether they capture another title together or simply enjoy the camaraderie of the oche, fans can look forward to witnessing two of darts’ most iconic figures back in action, reminding everyone why the sport’s legends continue to captivate audiences around the world.