AN emotional Michael van Gerwen has paid tribute to Wayne Mardle’s wife Donna.
The 52-year-old passed away on the eve of the World Championships following a short illness.
Mardle was due to be one of the main commentators of Sky Sports’ Ally Pally coverage this Christmas.
The former darts star is sitting out the tournament and will now be away from the mic for the foreseeable future.
Van Gerwen enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 victory over English debutant James Hurrell in his opening match on Friday.
The Dutchman is looking to win his first title at the Palace since 2021.
Following the contest, MVG was asked to give his thoughts on Donna’s shock passing.
A tearful Van Gerwen said: “The day I heard I gave [Wayne] a text.
“Of course, it’s very sad. I’ve known them for a very long time.
“The first time I know him was over 22 years ago, when I was 13.
“Donna, she was his life. It’s really sad.”
Presenter Emma Paton announced the sad news of Donna’s passing live on TV last Sunday.
Paton choked back tears as she 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.”
READ MORE on all the build-up to the Ally Pally extravaganza...
All the info:
News, features and interviews:
Donna had previously battled cancer, with Mardle announcing in 2018 that she had been given the all-clear.
This July, Wayne posted a tribute to his wife on their 22nd wedding anniversary.
Mardle, who was nicknamed Hawaii 501 in his playing days, said: “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.”
Van Gerwen averaged 94.85 in his win over Hurrell and took out two three-figure checkouts.
He will now face either Brendan Dolan or Lok Yin Lee in the third round.
