Phil Taylor might not win another world title after this year's defeat by Jelle Klaasen, says Wayne Mardle
Thursday 31 December 2015 09:16, UK
Phil Taylor might not win another world title after his bid for a 17th trophy was ended by Jelle Klaasen at Alexandra Palace, says Wayne Mardle.
The 55-year-old is the most successful champion in the tournament's history, but he has not lifted the trophy since 2013 and he finished the year without a major title after a third-round 4-3 defeat to the Dutchman.
Sky Sports expert Mardle refused to write off Taylor's hopes of adding to his 16 titles, but admitted 'The Power' needs to raise his game if he wants to compete with his high performing rivals.
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"I don't think it ends them completely, he will come back, I feel sure of that, but it's getting so tough for him now," said Mardle.
"He's going to have to be better than this next year.
I don't think it kills him off completely but I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't win another one.
"He's had a good year performance wise, but without crossing the line. This is the worst I have seen him play this year and it happens to be at the World Championship. That will rile him. That will make him think 'what is going on here? Why did I buckle at the worlds?'
"Normally he's the one that struts his stuff at the worlds, the one that grows on that stage. I don't think it kills him off completely, but I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't win another one."
Speaking afterwards, Taylor gave an honest assessment of his performance at the tournament, revealing how he had been effected by personal problems away from the oche.
Mardle praised Taylor for his heartfelt post-match interview, which he felt explained why the Stoke man was not fully focused on the sport.
"It was really brave of Phil to share his inner turmoil," said Mardle. "It was a brave thing for him to do and maybe a lot of people didn't know that, but that's what has been going on and you can understand why he's not been at the races 100 per cent."
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