Phil Taylor, has dispatched Dutch challenger Michael Van Gerwen, in a second round encounter, at the Alexandra Palace. In his post-match interview with Sky Sports’s Dave Clarke, he is already looking ahead. ‘I’d love to get Barney in the final’, declared The Power.
Basically, he is mooting, that only Raymond Van Barneveld, can offer him, the level of challenge that he wants, needs, and will thrive on. Whilst The Power’s attitude is understandable, its also slightly presumptive.
Presumptive, that he will dispatch the dangerous Kevin Painter in round three. Whilst Taylor’s record against The Artist, is impressive, he would be wise, not to get too far ahead of himself.
When a champion starts to take their eye off the ball, and presume success, based on past success, then they set themselves up, for an almighty fall. The way the Australian cricket team, assumed success in the 2005 Ashes series, is a classic example.
A champion, by nature, experiences sustained success. This success is founded on hunger, desire and attention to detail. You can though, have so much success, that it becomes second nature to you. And the danger then is, that you become familiar with it. You assume it.
It may well be, that Phil Taylor, has so much confidence in his own game, that he doesn’t feel he can be beaten. And that he can look ahead to the World Final. knowing that his game is good enough, to beat off the challenges he will face. And he may be right.
But, it would be a great mistake, if he assumed this success. For a champion without humility, and the greatest respect for their opponent, will soon find Dr Reality knocking on their door.
Note: Kevin Painter took the first set of Phil Taylor, with an average of 112. Following the first TV break, he was not able to sustain his brilliance, and Taylor prevailed. And won his 14th World Title. Thus, taking his confidence and belief in himself, to another level. Briliant!