Phil "The Power" Taylor, the legendary figure who has dominated darts for decades, is preparing to step back onto the competitive stage for a special event later this year. The 16‑time world champion, who hung up his professional darts shoes in 2018 after a storied career that included his final world title five years earlier, has announced that he will join forces with longtime compatriot Adrian Lewis for the MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament.
The competition is scheduled to run from November 23 to November 28, and it promises to be a nostalgic yet thrilling showcase for fans of the sport. Taylor, now 66 years old, has spent the past several years largely out of the limelight, practising his throws in the relaxed atmosphere of a local pub and even installing a brand‑new dartboard in his own home to keep his skills sharp. Despite numerous invitations to return to full‑time competition, he has consistently emphasized that any comeback would have to be motivated by a compelling reason. In this case, the chance to partner with Adrian Lewis—one of the few players he respects enough to consider sharing the oche with again—proved to be that reason.
"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," Taylor explained in a recent interview. The pair share a deep history on the international stage. Lewis and Taylor previously joined forces to claim four World Cup of Darts titles for England, forging a reputation as one of the most successful duos in the sport’s modern era.
Their chemistry on the board is well‑known: they understand each other's rhythms, strengths, and strategic preferences, allowing them to anticipate shots and support one another under pressure. "Phil and I have shared some brilliant moments playing together over the years," Lewis said, adding that the opportunity to reunite for the MODUS event feels "really special". "We know what it takes to win as a pair and I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do together." While the MODUS Super Series is not an official Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) tournament, it has attracted a strong field of international talent and is expected to deliver high‑quality matches that will satisfy both casual viewers and die‑hard enthusiasts.
The organizers have promised an exciting line‑up, and the full list of participants will be disclosed on October 10. This event will also serve as a platform for Taylor to gauge his current level of play after undergoing a successful hip replacement surgery earlier this year—a procedure that has reportedly restored his mobility and confidence on the oche.
Taylor’s decision to return, even if only for a limited engagement, highlights a broader trend among veteran athletes who seek selective comebacks that align with personal motivations rather than a full‑time return to the grind of the professional circuit. For Taylor, the allure lies not in chasing additional titles but in reliving the camaraderie and competitive spirit that defined his prime years. "I've been asked plenty of times about coming back, but it would have to be for the right reason," he said, underscoring the importance of the partnership with Lewis as that catalyst. The upcoming tournament will be broadcast through various channels, with day‑two coverage of the World Grand Prix available on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Main Event starting at 6 p.m.
on Tuesday. Fans can follow the action each day through to the final on Sunday, and those without a traditional cable subscription have the option to stream via NOW with flexible, contract‑free plans. Organizers have also advised viewers to use the Chrome browser for the best video player experience, ensuring smooth playback of the high‑definition darts action. Beyond the immediate excitement of the pairs competition, Taylor’s participation may have ripple effects for the sport’s broader community.
His presence alone draws significant media attention, potentially increasing viewership for the MODUS Super Series and encouraging younger players to aspire to longevity in darts. Moreover, his willingness to compete alongside a peer rather than a rising star signals a respect for the game’s traditions and the value of established partnerships.
In summary, Phil Taylor’s upcoming appearance at the MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament marks a noteworthy moment in darts history. At 66, after a celebrated career, a hip replacement, and years of semi‑retirement, he is set to reunite with Adrian Lewis—his trusted teammate—to chase another victory on the world stage. While this comeback is unlikely to signal a permanent return to full‑time competition, it offers fans a rare glimpse of two legends collaborating once more, promising memorable moments, high‑stakes drama, and a celebration of the sport’s enduring appeal.