Phil "The Power" Taylor, the legendary sixteen‑time world darts champion, has announced that he will step back onto the competitive stage for the upcoming MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament, scheduled to run from November 23 to November 28. At 66 years of age, Taylor had officially hung up his darts in 2018, five years after clinching his final world title, but a unique invitation has lured him out of retirement for a one‑off appearance.
The event will see Taylor join forces with his longtime compatriot Adrian Lewis, a fellow former world champion with whom he has shared a rich history on the oche. The duo’s partnership is particularly noteworthy because the pair have already proven their chemistry by capturing four World Cup of Darts titles together.
Their combined experience, mutual understanding of each other's playing styles, and shared ambition make them a formidable pair for the MODUS Super Series, an invitational competition that, while not an official PDC ranking event, promises a strong field of international talent. Taylor explained that the prospect of teaming up with Lewis was the decisive factor in his decision to return. "I've been asked many times about making a comeback, but it has to be for the right reason," he said in a recent interview.
"Adrian is one of the very few people I would consider coming out of retirement to play alongside, and the MODUS Super Series is the perfect platform for that. We have a lot of history together, we know each other's games inside out, and I'm excited to get back up there with him." Lewis echoed the sentiment, highlighting the special nature of the reunion. "Phil and I have shared some brilliant moments playing together over the years," he noted. "To have 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 achieve together in this tournament." In the months leading up to his return, Taylor has been keeping his skills sharp in a more relaxed setting, practising at a local pub and even installing a new dartboard at home. He also recently underwent a successful hip replacement surgery, which has restored his mobility and confidence in his throwing arm. These personal updates underscore his readiness to compete at a high level, even if only for a short stint. The MODUS Super Series itself is gaining attention for its eclectic lineup and innovative format.
Although it does not carry PDC ranking points, the tournament attracts top‑tier players from around the world, offering fans a chance to see high‑quality darts in a more relaxed, exhibition‑style environment. The full list of participants is slated for release on October 10, and organizers promise a compelling mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars.
Fans eager to follow the action can tune in to Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Main Event, where live coverage of the tournament will begin on the second day of the World Grand Prix, starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. The broadcast schedule will continue daily, culminating in the final on Sunday.
For those who prefer streaming, NOW offers a contract‑free option to watch the matches. Taylor's brief return is not expected to signal a permanent comeback to the professional circuit.
Instead, it appears to be a carefully considered, nostalgic appearance that celebrates his partnership with Lewis and adds an extra layer of excitement to the MODUS event. By stepping back onto the oche for this specific occasion, Taylor demonstrates that even after a distinguished career and a major medical procedure, the love of the game and the camaraderie with a trusted teammate can still inspire a champion to compete once more. The upcoming tournament will not only provide a platform for Taylor and Lewis to showcase their enduring skill but also give younger players the opportunity to learn from two of the sport's most accomplished figures. As the darts community anticipates the unveiling of the full entry list, the excitement surrounding Taylor's return underscores the lasting impact he has had on the sport and the enduring appeal of partnership play in darts.
Whether the pair can replicate their past World Cup successes remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the combination of Taylor's experience, Lewis's sharpness, and the supportive atmosphere of the MODUS Super Series promises a memorable chapter in darts history. Fans worldwide will be watching closely, ready to cheer on the legends as they take up their darts once more and aim for another victorious run together.