Luke Humphries, pHIL tAYLOR, Luke Littler

The 20 greatest darts players of all time, ranked from legends to rising stars

October 14, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From smoky pub corners to sold-out arenas, darts has transformed into a global sporting phenomenon. This countdown of the 20 greatest darts players in history, ranked from 20 to 1, celebrates the champions who shaped the game and left unforgettable marks on the oche. Each player's legacy, titles, rivalries, and impact have been weighed to crown the sport's ultimate icons.

20. Nathan Aspinall – steady rise through grit and talent

Nathan Aspinall has built a solid reputation with two major titles to his name. Known for his relentless focus and competitive edge, he's one of the modern game's most consistent performers.

19. Richie Burnett – Welsh flair and resilience

With three major championships under his belt, Richie Burnett brought both charisma and passion to the stage. The Welshman remains a key figure in darts history for his spirited performances during the BDO era.

18. Jocky Wilson – a true fan favorite

Jocky Wilson captured two major titles and the hearts of darts fans worldwide. His gritty style and unique presence made him one of the sport’s most beloved characters.

17. Bob Anderson – the original ‘The Limestone Cowboy’

Bob Anderson claimed four major titles and was a dominant force during the 1980s. His steady throwing style and mental toughness helped him stay competitive for many years.

16. Rob Cross – instant impact on the big stage

Rob Cross made an explosive entrance into the world of darts, winning four major titles including the 2018 PDC World Championship. His victory over Phil Taylor in that final signaled a changing of the guard.

15. Martin Adams – BDO legend with ten titles

Martin "Wolfie" Adams remains a giant in BDO history with 10 major championships to his name. His loyalty to the BDO and consistent excellence over decades cemented his status as a darts great.

14. James Wade – the king of consistency

James Wade has collected 11 major titles, known for his unshakeable demeanor under pressure. As one of the most reliable players in the PDC, he’s been a mainstay in the world’s top rankings.

13. Gerwyn Price – the Iceman’s rise to glory

Former rugby player turned darts champion, Gerwyn Price has won seven major championships. Known for his intense presence and raw power, he’s become one of the most polarizing and successful players of the modern era.

12. Adrian Lewis – back-to-back brilliance

Adrian Lewis boasts four major titles, including consecutive PDC World Championships in 2011 and 2012. With one of the smoothest throws in the game, Lewis has thrilled fans with his natural flair and firepower.

11. Peter Wright – the showman with substance

Peter Wright has eight major championships and a style as colorful as his mohawks. The Scot’s transformation from nearly man to world champion has made him one of the sport’s most inspirational stories.

10. Dennis Priestley – Taylor’s greatest rival

Dennis Priestley won two world titles and three majors overall. Best known for his intense rivalry with Phil Taylor, Priestley was a pioneer of the early PDC years and held his own against the very best.

9. Gary Anderson – the Flying Scotsman’s golden run

With 12 major titles, including back-to-back world championships in 2015 and 2016, Gary Anderson has dazzled crowds with his smooth action and scoring power. He also holds the record for most 180s in a match.

8. John Part – Canada's greatest ever darts player

John Part brought Canadian darts to the world stage with three world titles and four majors overall. His sharp focus and steady game earned him legendary status, particularly for his wins in both BDO and PDC eras.

7. Luke Humphries – the new world number one

Luke Humphries, Darts — Norina Toenges / Shutterstock.com

Still just 30, Luke Humphries already has eight major titles, including a world championship. A Triple Crown winner and fierce competitor, his growing rivalry with Luke Littler promises a new era of excitement.

6. John Lowe – a champion across three decades

John Lowe won five major titles and made history by becoming world champion in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. He also hit the first-ever televised nine-darter, adding a historic touch to his already remarkable career.

5. Luke Littler – the teenage sensation

At just 18, Luke Littler has seven major titles and has already won a world championship. 'The Nuke' has become a phenomenon, with a Triple Crown and a legacy already forming as he inspires a new generation of players.

4. Raymond van Barneveld – Dutch darting royalty

With 24 major titles, including five world championships, Van Barneveld brought darts to new heights in the Netherlands. A fan favorite for decades, he continues to compete at a high level into his fourth decade on tour.

3. Eric Bristow – the Crafty Cockney who changed the game

Eric Bristow won 10 majors and five world titles, becoming a household name in the 1980s. Known for his swagger and sharp mind, he helped bring darts to mainstream popularity and was awarded an MBE for his contributions.

2. Michael van Gerwen – the green machine’s domination

With 48 major titles and counting, including three world championships, Michael van Gerwen has redefined excellence in darts. His explosive style and winning mentality have made him a modern icon of the sport.

1. Phil Taylor – the undisputed king of darts

Phil “The Power” Taylor stands alone with 87 major championships and 16 world titles. His dominance from the 1990s through the 2010s, including 14 straight world finals, makes him the greatest darts player of all time.