Phil "The Power" Taylor, the legendary figure who dominated the world of professional darts for over two decades, is gearing up for a surprise comeback at the upcoming MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament, scheduled for late November. The 66‑year‑old, who hung up his competitive darts shoes in 2018 after a glittering career that included 16 world titles, has announced that he will step back onto the oche alongside his long‑time compatriot Adrian Lewis. The pair will contest the event that runs from November 23 to November 28, marking Taylor’s first appearance in a major tournament since his retirement. Taylor’s decision to return was not taken lightly.
In recent months he has been spotted practicing in a local pub and has even installed a brand‑new dartboard in his own home, a clear sign that the sport still holds a strong allure for him. While he has faced numerous invitations to re‑enter the professional circuit, Taylor has consistently emphasized that any return would have to be for a purpose that resonated with him personally.
The chance to team up with Adrian Lewis—one of the few players with whom he shares a deep, historic bond—proved to be that compelling reason. "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 MODUS 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 more than a nostalgic pairing; it is a reunion of two players who have already achieved remarkable success as a duo.
The pair previously joined forces to capture four World Cup of Darts titles for England, demonstrating a chemistry and strategic understanding that few other teams have replicated. Lewis echoed Taylor’s enthusiasm, noting, "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 updates also add a layer of intrigue to his comeback. Earlier this year he underwent a successful hip replacement surgery, a procedure that many athletes fear could limit their performance. However, Taylor’s swift recovery and continued practice sessions suggest that he feels physically ready to compete at a high level once more. While he has made it clear that this appearance is unlikely to signal a full‑time return to the professional tour, fans can expect to see the former champion display his trademark precision and composure during the tournament.
The MODUS Super Series itself is not part of the official Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar, but it has rapidly grown into a marquee event that attracts a diverse field of international talent. Organisers have promised an exciting line‑up, and a full entry list is set to be released on October 10.
The tournament’s format, which pairs players from the same country or with established partnerships, offers a unique platform for legends like Taylor and Lewis to showcase their teamwork against both seasoned pros and rising stars. Beyond the immediate excitement of Taylor’s return, his participation underscores a broader trend in darts: the sport’s increasing willingness to blend veteran experience with fresh competition. As darts continues to expand its global reach, events such as the MODUS Super Series provide valuable exposure for emerging players while giving longtime fans a chance to relive the golden eras of the game. For viewers eager to follow the action, the tournament will be broadcast across various platforms.
While the MODUS Super Series itself may not be on the traditional PDC channels, fans can still catch related coverage, including day‑two highlights of the World Grand Prix, on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Main Event starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. The coverage will continue daily, culminating in the final showdown on Sunday. Additionally, those looking for flexible viewing options can explore Sky Sports deals or stream the event without a contract via NOW.
In summary, Phil "The Power" Taylor’s decision to step back onto the darts stage, even if just for a single event, is a momentous occasion for the sport. Partnering with Adrian Lewis, a fellow champion with whom he shares a storied past, adds an extra layer of drama and anticipation. Whether the pair can replicate their past World Cup triumphs or simply provide fans with a memorable display of skill and camaraderie, the MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament promises to be a highlight of the darts calendar this November.