Phil Taylor breaks silence on I'm A Celebrity rumours as darts icon tipped for ITV show

Phil Taylor has expressed an interest in joining TV show 'I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here' - but he's laughed off the idea of appearing this year, despite being tipped as an early favourite by bookies!

The iconic darts player, who is now officially retired at 64 following a remarkable career, is taking time to consider his next move with family considerations at the forefront of his retirement decision. While rumours had circulated about a potential stint on the popular ITV show, Taylor was surprised at his speculated participation, saying: "I'd be interested but not this year, it's too late!

"Someone mentioned I was the favourite in the bookies but I did say; 'I have no idea how'." Taylor's career saw him tot-up 214 tournament wins which included 14 World Championships. The Power won his first World Championship in 1990, three years after becoming a professional.

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His dominance then began in the mid-1990s as he won eight titles on the bounce, starting in 1995. He won his last World Championship in 2013.

Now there's talk of him mentoring the sport's latest sensation - Luke Littler. The teenager has already transcended his sport, attracting new fans, and Taylor would be keen on teaming up.

He added: "I'm retired now, properly retired. I'm just going to do some personal appearances.

"How do I know [when to retire]? My eyes started going a few years ago then my hip went and then the travelling [became too demanding]. You're away from home four-five days a week, and it's good for money, but it's not good for your family. My mind is still in my teens but my body is 90."

On Littler, Taylor