sportskeeda
The darting community is deeply saddened by the passing of Donna Mardle.
Donna was the beloved spouse of Sky Sports commentator and former player Wayne.
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The announcement of Donna’s death came during the opening of the 2025 World Darts Championship, where Wayne is recognized as the tournament’s iconic commentator.
In a poignant start to the television broadcast, Sky Sports Darts host Emma Paton remarked, “If you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts, you will notice that Wayne is absent this evening.
“He epitomizes everything we do here at Sky Sports Darts.
“Yet the center of his world, his wonderful wife Donna, sadly passed away earlier this week following a brief illness.
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“We will pay tribute to Donna throughout this tournament. Wayne, you are in our thoughts and hearts, and we care for you deeply. We look forward to seeing you soon.”
It has been reported that Wayne will not be joining the Sky commentary team – where he is a vital voice – for the foreseeable future.
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Who Was Donna, Wayne’s Wife?
Donna Mardle, previously known as Hyde, passed away at the age of 52 after a brief illness.
The couple was married for 22 years and lived in Essex.
Almost seven years ago, Wayne revealed on social media that Donna had triumphed over cancer.
The 51-year-old tweeted on his X account: “I don’t normally disclose personal issues, but I must share that my wife Donna is now CANCER FREE!!! We are tremendously happy. #BEATEN.”
On July 24, 2024, Wayne honored his wife with a tribute on their 22nd wedding anniversary.
He wrote: “On April 30, 1988, I asked Donna Hyde to be my girlfriend.
“She said yes, emphatically, of course. Ha.
“Today marks our 22nd wedding anniversary. To celebrate, she’s off to Gibraltar with the girls for a week.”
