The world of professional darts has been left reeling following the courageous announcement that beloved broadcaster and former player Mark Webster has been diagnosed with hairy cell leukaemia, a rare and slow-growing form of blood cancer.
The 41-year-old Welshman, affectionately known as “Webby” by fans and colleagues, revealed his diagnosis in a heartfelt social media statement earlier this week, prompting an immediate and overwhelming wave of support from across the sporting community.
Webster, who won the prestigious BDO World Championship in 2008 before moving to the PDC circuit and becoming a fan-favourite commentator for Sky Sports and ITV, described the news as a “huge shock” but struck a typically positive tone, stating that he is determined to “face it head-on.”
“It’s been a tough few weeks, but the doctors have caught it early and the prognosis is good,” Webster wrote. “I’ll be stepping back from the microphone for a while to focus on treatment, but I can’t wait to be back calling the big legs again.”
Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) is a rare cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow, named for the hair-like projections visible on the abnormal B-cells under a microscope. While incurable in many cases, it is often highly treatable, with many patients achieving long-term remission following targeted chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
Leading the tributes, darts legend Phil Taylor said: “Webby is one of the good guys. A clever mind on the oche and an even better one in the comms box. We’re all behind you, mate.”
World number one Luke Humphries added: “A true ambassador for our sport. Stay strong, Webby. The whole darts family has your back.”
Former rival and current pundit Wayne Mardle, visibly emotional during an online broadcast, said: “Mark is a fighter. He’s got the cleverest darting brain I know, and now he needs to use that fight on himself. We love you, Webby.”
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) released a statement saying: “Everyone at the PDC is deeply saddened to hear Mark’s news. He has given so much to darts as a champion and as a voice of the game. We send him our full support and best wishes for a successful recovery.”
Fans also flooded social media with messages of hope, many sharing clips of Webster’s iconic 2008 world final victory and his sharp-eyed, warm-hearted commentary from recent Premier League nights.
Webster has not yet confirmed when he will begin treatment, but thanked his family, doctors, and supporters, signing off: “One step at a time. I’ll be back throwing my two pence in before you know it.”
