Phil Taylor will not compete in the
World Seniors Darts Matchplay in York this weekend. 'The Power' was due to play his penultimate tournament there as a professional dart player, but had to withdraw on medical advice.
The 16-time world champion has suffered discomfort in recent weeks following hip surgery and has decided to honor the advice not to play. However, 'The Power' will still be present at The Barbican as part of the team of commentators on British broadcaster TNT Sports.
Taylor's place in York will be taken by three-time Lakeside finalist Tony O'Shea, who had to cancel the World Seniors Darts Championship just in February because of a hand injury. 'Silverback' will take on reigning senior world champion John Henderson in the first round.
"Naturally, I am gutted to be missing out on playing in such a big event like the WSDT Seniors World Matchplay", said Taylor.
"I have been leaving no stone unturned in preparation for York, but after having hip replacement surgery, I have been feeling pain in the last few weeks, and the consultants have advised against playing this weekend".
"I withdrew from playing in a weekend exhibition in Whitby to give myself every chance for the Matchplay, but I have to be sensible, and take the advice I have been given on board".
"Rest assured, I will be doing everything to be ready and fully fit for the WSDT Seniors World Masters in Sunderland in November".
"I'm really pleased to be still be coming to York, and I'm looking forward to working with the team at TNT Sports and WSDT over the weekend and meeting the fans. The WSDT work tirelessly to put these events on, and I'm more than happy to help in any way I can".
"It promises to be a fantastic tournament, and there will be a fair few that will be glad I'm not going to be playing, as practice was going very well!".
