Luke Humphries, pHIL tAYLOR, Luke Littler

The 20 Greatest Darts Players of All Time – Ranked

July 30, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Darts has grown from a traditional pub pastime into a major global sport with millions of passionate fans. Through the decades, countless players have made their mark on the game, but only a select few can be called the greatest ever. Based on talent, major titles, competition level, and lasting impact, here’s our list of the 20 best darts players in history.

20. Nathan Aspinall

Aspinall rose to prominence with his fearless style and strong finishes under pressure. He has already won two major titles and continues to be a threat at the highest level of the PDC.

19. Richie Burnett

Known as "The Prince of Wales," Burnett was a fiery competitor in the 1990s. His BDO World Championship win in 1995 marked the peak of a vibrant career.

18. Jocky Wilson

A cult hero from Scotland, Wilson claimed two world titles and thrilled fans with his unorthodox technique and gritty performances in the 1980s.

17. Bob Anderson

Nicknamed "The Limestone Cowboy," Anderson won the World Championship in 1988 and three World Masters titles. He was a force throughout the 80s.

16. Rob Cross

Cross burst onto the scene by winning the PDC World Championship in his debut year (2018), famously defeating Phil Taylor in the final. His rapid rise was nothing short of remarkable.

15. Martin Adams

“Wolfie” stayed loyal to the BDO, where he became a three-time world champion and won a total of 10 major titles. He was one of the most consistent players of his era.

14. James Wade

Wade is one of the most successful players never to win a world title, with 11 major championships under his belt. His calm demeanor and consistency have kept him at the top for over a decade.

13. Gerwyn Price

The former rugby player brought unmatched intensity to the oche. Price won the 2021 World Championship and is known for his powerful scoring and mental toughness.

12. Adrian Lewis

A two-time world champion, Lewis was a natural talent mentored by Phil Taylor. His back-to-back world titles in 2011 and 2012 showcased his explosive game.

11. Peter Wright

With his colorful hair and eccentric style, “Snakebite” is one of the sport’s biggest characters. He’s also a two-time world champion and a Premier League winner.

10. Dennis Priestley

Priestley won world titles in both the BDO and PDC, defeating greats along the way. He faced Phil Taylor in four world finals, and while he lost all of them, he remained one of Taylor’s most respected rivals.

9. Gary Anderson

“The Flying Scotsman” is a two-time world champion and World Cup winner. Known for his silky throw and heavy scoring, Anderson holds the record for the most 180s in a single match.

8. John Part

Canada’s most iconic darts player, Part won three world titles across both the BDO and PDC. He played a crucial role in bringing the sport to a North American audience.

7. Luke Humphries

Luke Humphries, Darts — Norina Toenges / Shutterstock.com

Currently ranked number one in the world, Humphries is a Triple Crown winner and one of the sport’s brightest stars. With youth on his side, his legacy is still being written.

6. John Lowe

Lowe won world titles in three different decades and threw the first-ever televised nine-darter in 1984. A true gentleman of the sport and a consistent winner throughout his career.

5. Luke Littler

At just 18, Littler has already won the World Championship and completed the Triple Crown. With unmatched confidence and a growing fanbase, he’s redefining the sport’s future.

4. Raymond van Barneveld

“Barney” is a five-time world champion and one of darts’ most beloved players. His battles with Taylor and dedication to the Dutch fanbase helped globalize the sport.

3. Eric Bristow

“The Crafty Cockney” was darts’ first mainstream superstar. With five world titles and massive TV appeal in the 80s, Bristow brought darts into millions of homes.

2. Michael van Gerwen

MVG has racked up 48 major titles, including three world championships. His speed, power, and dominance over the last decade have made him a modern legend.

1. Phil Taylor

“The Power” stands alone at the top with an astonishing 87 major titles, including 16 world championships. He defined an era and remains the greatest player the sport has ever seen.