Top Darts Players Who Changed the Game Forever

Darts is a rapidly growing sport which, throughout the years, has seen numerous notable figures impact the game forever. In its early years, darts was in the same category as pub pastimes such as pool, and has since transformed into a global sport watched by millions each year. What was once a simple and often overlooked activity has transformed into a major entertainment product, supported by television deals, sponsorships, and crossover interest from digital entertainment platforms such as jackpot slots. As the sport expanded, its biggest stars not only won major titles but helped reshape how darts was viewed around the world. This article explores some of the most influential players in darts history and the impact they have had on the sport.

 

Phil Taylor

Phil Taylor is one of the most popular darts players of all time and is widely regarded as the greatest by many. Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor is the most decorated player of all time, with 16 world titles, despite his first not coming until he was 29 years old. Phil Taylor transformed the sport in many ways, including raising the standards of play through his incredible consistency and high averages. Phil Taylor was one of the pioneering figures in darts who helped showcase the sport's potential in mainstream media, highlighting the career paths available in the sport.

 

Raymond van Barneveld

One of the most loved darting icons of all time is Raymond van Barneveld, who has left an everlasting impact on the sport. Barney helped globalise darts, making it a major sport in the Netherlands and helping showcase its potential to entertain on a global scale. The entertainment that came with games involving the Dutchman was truly special, not only maintaining a high level of consistency on the board but also engaging with the fans, making a true spectacle. Raymond van Barneveld retired from darts with an impressive 5 world titles, leaving an impact far greater than his success, influencing the next wave of Dutch darts players.

 

Michael van Gerwen

One of the subsequent Dutch darts players that emerged following the sport's globalisation was Michael van Gerwen. Similar to Phil Taylor, van Gerwen’s darting impact stems from his dominance in the sport, primarily during the 2010s, though he remains a notable player today. Michael van Gerwen has helped elevate the levels of the darting world, driving professionals to improve or be left behind, with the Dutchman dominating. Michael van Gerwen has three world championships, placing himself up there in conversations with the greats.

 

Eric Bristow

In the early years of darts, Eric Bristow was one of the most influential players, helping transform the sport from a popular pub activity into a televised sport. Bristow was the first true superstar in the darts world, laying the foundations for the players who followed. Eric Bristow reached impressive heights in the early years of darts, winning 5 world championships. Not only did he bring excellence to the oche, but he also played a role in Phil Taylor's development, acting as a mentor in his early years.

 

Luke Littler

Despite being in the early stages of his career, Luke Littler has already had a huge impact on the sport of darts. Littler's excellence on the board at such a young age is incredible: he reached the final of the world championship at 16 and won his first at 17. In addition to his triumph at a young age, Luke Littler has become a sporting sensation, reaching large social media followings and becoming an all-around darts superstar. Despite competing for less than three years, Luke Littler has already marked his name in darting history and is expected to continue to inspire the next generation.

 

Peter Wright

Like all names on this list, Peter Wright has also reached notable success in the darting world, but his impact expands beyond his triumph. Peter ‘Snakebite’ Wright has won 2 world championships, but he is best remembered for his darting persona. Whether it's his flashy hairstyles, engaging walk-ons, or bright, darting attire, Peter Wright is one of the most interesting and influential darting figures of all time. Peter Wright has massively impacted the sport, helping showcase that sporting personalities can elevate the overall sport whilst performing at the top level.

 

Final Thoughts

The players who have changed darts forever have done more than achieve greatness on the oche; they have also redefined the sport. These players have helped evolve the sport from a popular pub activity to a global spectacle, increasing its popularity. The impact of some of the oldest players on this list, such as Bristow and Taylor, can still be seen in the modern day, whilst innovations continue to elevate the sport. In today's darting world, competition is reaching new heights, thanks in part to advanced training and a wider player base, driven by some of the sport's sporting personas.