DESPITE his imperious Blue Square UK Open win, Phil Taylor believes he can continue improving.
Taylor claimed a third UK Open title at Bolton on Sunday, defeating Colin Osborne 11-6 in the final after trailing 3-0 early in the decider.
In all six games over the weekend Taylor averaged over 100 - including two averages above 115 in defeating Ken Mather and Mark Lawrence.
Having also averaged a televised record 116.01 during the Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts, many pundits believe Taylor is better than ever.
However, the 14-time World Champion admits that he can improve further both on the board and in his preparation.
"It's not all the time that I'm getting better, it's a bit spontaneous at the moment," said Taylor.
"I'm doing 103 and 104 then 115 and I've got to keep 115 up all the time - and get even better to 116 and 117.
"I can do it and I know I can do it - if I get my preparation right.
"I've realised after the UK Open that I'm not fit enough or strong enough. I've got to get better, get fitter and concentrate on my career more.
"In the final I started to feel the tiredness and Colin kicked off fantastically. I couldn't seem to grind him down but I got a few chances and got back into it.
"Colin won his semi-final and had a sleep for an hour, and he was fresh and ready for the final.
"I played, had half an hour and was back on again, and it makes a difference - but I had to keep grinding. He went a little bit during the middle session and I picked up on that."
Osborne is one of a number of new stars to emerge in recent years, and Taylor admits that the newcomers are adopting a more professional approach.
"All these players are preparing themselves properly," he said. "They are practising, dedicating themselves and trying to get better.
"It's different to years ago, when they just practised - now they are practising to get better.
"They concentrate, write things down and check them day in, day out. That's the difference."
Taylor has overcome Osborne a number of times already in 2009, but is impressed with the Derby star's progress.
"He's a great player," he added. "He has got a lot of finals ahead of him, he's a lovely kid and his talent is fantastic.
Although he recently lost his Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts crown, Taylor is on course for a clean sweep of the PDC's major ranking titles this year.
He will defend his PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic and stanjames.com World Matchplay titles over the next six weeks, and is targeting further glory in both.
"I love Vegas and Blackpool is my favourite event," said Taylor. "If I lose that, I'll be gutted.
"It's like a second World Championship to me and I love it."
Tickets for the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic and stanjames.com World Matchplay are still available - click here for full PDC ticket information