Darts: Taylor aims for 10th world title
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Phil Taylor has his sights firmly set on a remarkable 10th world title when the 2002 Skol World Championship gets under way at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, Essex, today.
"I practised a lot for this tournament and I'm really, really excited about it," he said. "I am also a bit nervous which is good and I think it is going to be the best one ever, to be honest."
Taylor, nicknamed "The Power", will face the debutant Paul Williams in the first round tomorrow and is expected to cruise into the next phase without too many problems.
However, Taylor suffered a shock first-round defeat to the qualifier Kevin Painter at the World Grand Prix Championship in October and will take nothing for granted. He insists he has learned from that rare setback and added: "I'm hungrier than I've ever been, so all those players who feel I can be beaten are going to be shown I am out to win and no one will be in my way.
"I have been doing loads of practice, three or four hours a day. I'm feeling good.
"Alan Warriner played very well in Ireland but it's going to be difficult for him. Everybody is after him now."
Taylor feels, despite his premature exit from the World Grand Prix, that the pressure is still on him as he goes into the World Championship as the clear favourite.
Taylor said: "It's put more pressure on me. They are all good players or else they wouldn't be here. But I will be ready on Saturday."
Others expected to be leading challengers, apart from Warriner, are the local favourite Rod Harrington, Steve Beaton, Peter Manley and the Mexborough-based Dennis Priestley.
Warriner, who meets Reg Harding in the first round, said: "I'm hoping to kick on after my win in Ireland. The longer format will suit the better players so if I lose it is my own fault.
"Harding will be a tough customer as there is still fight in the old dog yet. Harding has been unlucky in the big tournaments, always drawing a top player in the first round, but I won't be relaxed at all."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments