Wayne Mardle to miss World Darts Championship after sad death of ...

Darts fan favourite Wayne Mardle will miss the World Darts Championship due to the sad passing of his wife Donna.

Donna sadly passed away earlier this week following a short battle with an illness. The shock news was announced at the Alexandra Palace as the Darts World Championship got underway on Sunday night.

And it means the much-beloved broadcaster Mardle will understandably miss the event at the Ally Palace, with no date set for when the 51-year-old will return to Sky Sports screens.

"If you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts, you will notice that Wayne is not here with us this evening," said presenter Emma Paton on Sunday evening.

"Wayne is the heart and soul of everything we do here at Sky Sports Darts. But the heart of his world, his wonderful wife Donna, sadly passed away earlier this week after a short illness.

"We will be remembering Donna throughout this tournament. Wayne, you're in our thoughts. You're in our hearts. We love you very much. And we will see you very soon."

In a post on X, Sky said: "Sky Sports would like to send their thoughts, prayers and condolences to our commentator Wayne Mardle, following the passing of his wife Donna earlier this week."

PDC's X account also paid tribute: "All our thoughts and condolences are with Wayne Mardle and his family, after the passing of his wife Donna earlier this week."

Earlier this year, the pair shared their 22nd wedding anniversary back in June. And nearly seven years ago, Mardle revealed on social media Donna had beaten cancer.

However, her sad passing has left the darts world in mouring. "So sad to hear of the passing of Donna Mardle thoughts and prayers go out to all the family," Phil Taylor said.

Carl Fletcher added: "Sorry to just hear on Sky Sports about the sad news of Donna Mardle passing away. Condolences to Wayne. More to life than darts."

"Heartbreaking news on the eve of the 2025 World Darts Championship as Donna Mardle, the wife of Sky Sports pundit and former player Wayne Mardle, passed away this week after a short illness. Condolences to Wayne and his family and friends during this difficult time," one fan said.

"Was buzzing for the darts this year, but the news Donna Mardle.. so sad," a second said. While a third posted: "Just seen the news on TV about Wayne Mardle losing his wife Donna. Sending my condolences to him and their family at this awful time. Take care Wayne."