The 7 Most Influential Darts Players of the 21st Century

Darts is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, attracting viewers around the world to take part in the game, or even travel to attend the unique atmospheres of live fixtures. Some massive names have been created thanks to their dedication to darts, whether it's their ability, their commitment to bringing in new players, or even their personalities off the board. The levels of popularity have spiked in recent years and have seen exponential growth since the start of the 21st century. BoyleSports, the home of a casino bonus online at BOYLE Casino, has taken a look at the top 7 most influential players since the start of the decade.

 

 

Phil Taylor

Phil Taylor's impact on darts is the foundation of the modern era, and his record still stands as the benchmark that every new generation measures itself against. Throughout Taylor's career, he has accumulated over 200 title wins, as well as breaking the record for the most World Darts Championship titles, 16 in total. He completely dominated the sports over numerous decades, claiming multiple majors across almost every event he has partaken in, setting a benchmark for all players to attempt to reach; however, none have come close. Taylor's performances brought darts from niche pub competitions into mainstream sporting coverage in the UK and abroad, helping transform it into the global professional sport it is today.

 

 

Michael Van Gerwen

Michael van Gerwen reshaped darts in the twenty-first century with his blistering scoring power and long period of dominance that came once he matured as a professional. Gerwen began to break into the professional scene at a young age, reaching number 1 in 2014 at the age of 24, before going on to win 3 PDC World Championships, competing against the likes of Phil Taylor. He was never able to overtake Taylor, but is in second place when it comes to major PDC singles titles and set several records that only elevated the level needed for upcoming professionals. His ability to regularly produce scores and finishes that left opponents scrambling raised the bar for what modern players strive to achieve.

 

 

Raymond Van Barneveld

Raymond van Barneveld's influence can be seen most clearly in how he helped popularise darts outside the United Kingdom, especially in the Netherlands, where he became a national sporting figure. Van Barneveld saw major success in PDC and BDO events, also appearing several times in the Premier League. He brought widespread attention to the sport across Europe, which inspired a whole new generation not just to watch the sport, but also to get involved. His career spanned decades, and he won significant titles while competing at a high level well into the 2020s, illustrating his longevity and importance in bridging eras of the game's evolution.

 

 

Gary Anderson

Gary Anderson rose in the darts scene during one of the most prolific times in the sport's history, with his throwing style becoming favoured by fans around the world. Anderson is the holder of 2 PDC World Championships and has attended plenty of finals, which have allowed him to show off his talent and mentality around the world. He has a great ability to maintain strong performances, which has helped inspire a whole new wave of Scottish darts fans in particular. Off the oche, he remained a consistent presence in major events, pushing his peers and cementing a legacy as one of the most gifted all-round players of his generation.

 

 

Peter Wright

Peter Wright's impact on the sport goes beyond his results, although he has won two PDC World Championships and a World Matchplay title. Known affectionately as "Snakebite," Wright brought a colourful personality and style to the oche that helped attract new viewers. His changing hairstyles and outfits, coupled with serious finishing ability on the big stage, made him one of the most recognisable figures in darts. Wright has had some ups and downs during his career, including a series of incredibly dramatic wins, cementing his name in the history of the sport and becoming a key figure in terms of the growth of darts' popularity.

 

 

Luke Littler

The young English player Luke Littler represents the next generation of darts influence, having burst onto the professional scene with historic achievements at a very young age. Littler became the youngest PDC World Champion and then went on to win multiple major titles, including completing the Triple Crown of World Championship, Premier League, and World Matchplay, achievements that only the greatest names in the sport have managed. His rapid rise and charismatic presence have helped expand darts' global audience, particularly among younger fans, signalling a shift in how the sport connects with a broader public.

 

 

Fallon Sherrock

Fallon Sherrock's influence on darts comes from what she represented as much as what she achieved. Known as the "Queen of the Palace," Sherrock became the first female player to win match-ups at the PDC World Darts Championship in 2020, winning successive rounds and capturing attention beyond the traditional darts audience. Her success challenged conventional boundaries in a male-dominated sport and inspired greater conversation about inclusivity and opportunity. Sherrock's breakthrough moments have helped darts reach new viewers and have encouraged more women to compete at high levels.