THE world of darts is in mourning after the passing of Donna Mardle.
Donna was the wife of beloved Sky Sports commentator and former player, Wayne.
The announcement of Donna’s passing was made during the opening of the 2025 World Darts Championship, where Wayne is the competition’s iconic voice.
In an emotional opening to the TV broadcast, Sky Sports Darts host Emma Paton said: “Now if you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts, you will notice that Wayne is not here with us this 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 are in our thoughts, you are in our hearts, we love you very much. And we will see you very soon.”
It is understood Wayne will not be part of the Sky broadcast team – where he is an integral voice – for the foreseeable future.
Donna Mardle, nee Hyde, passed away aged 52 after a short illness.
The couple had been married for 22 years, and lived in Essex.
Nearly seven years ago, Wayne revealed on social media that Donna had come through a battle with cancer.
The 51-year-old posted on his X account: “I don’t normally tweet personal stuff, but I need to tell the world that my wife Donna, is now CANCER FREE!!! We’re so so happy. #BEATEN.”
On July 24, 2024, Wayne posted a tribute to his wife on their 22nd wedding anniversary.
He wrote: “On 30th April 1988 I asked Donna Hyde if she would be my girlfriend.
“She said yes, emphatically of course. Ha.
“Today is our 22nd wedding anniversary. To celebrate she’s p***ed off to Gibraltar with the girls for a week.”
