Taylor worries about former protegee Lewis: "It can take its toll on you mentally"

Adrian Lewis is currently having an indefinite break from darts. His former mentor, Phil 'the Power' Taylor, admits he's been worried about the mental health of his former protegee.

"Some of the players have been asking me about Aidy and why he's stepped back from the circuit," said Taylor who is currently preparing for his own return to the big stage, at World Seniors Masters in Yeovil on June 24th. "I'm none the wiser, and of course, I hope he's okay."

"I know his wife Sarah's health has not been the best in recent months, and if he's putting darts to one side because family comes first, good on him," continues the sixteen-time champion of the world. "A break might do him the world of good because the schedule is relentless. The circuit is so brutal - all the travel and hotels is expensive if you are not winning any significant prize money."

Widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted players to ever pick up a set of darts, Lewis was a free-flowing, high-scoring and always entertaining player in his pomp, claiming back-to-back world titles in 2011 and 2012. In recent years that level has dropped drastically however, failing to make it past the 2nd round at the World Darts Championship in his last 3 attempts.

"It can wear you down, and if you've got things going on your mind, or in the background at home, it can take its toll on you mentally. I would love to see Aidy back to his best, because when he's on top of his game he's still a top player with a lot to offer – but you've got to get your mindset right on that stage," Taylor explains.

‌"I do worry about him, but I hope he'll work through whatever is keeping him away from the floor and the stage. There aren't many people who have won two world titles out there - he's still young enough, and good enough, to win another one."