Former world champion Mark Webster takes enforced break from broadcast work due to medical reasons
PDCThursday, 26 February 2026 at 08:00
Mark Webster is temporarily stepping back from the darts scene. The 42-year-old Welshman is stepping down from his duties as an analyst for medical reasons. His management company, MODUS Sports, confirmed the news on Wednesday.
In recent years, Webster has been a mainstay as a commentator and analyst for Sky Sports, covering, among other events, the Premier League Darts and the World Darts Championship. However, the former BDO world champion will not be present at tournaments or on broadcasts for the time being. The same can be said for ITV where he would've been expected to work the UK Open next weekend.
In a statement, MODUS Sports said: "On behalf of Mark Webster, MODUS Sports Management can confirm that Mark will be taking a short break from his broadcasting duties, due to a personal medical condition. We please ask that you respect Mark’s privacy at this time."
Fans responded en masse on social media with messages of support. “Hope he's ok, him and Mardle are brill!!,” one follower wrote. Another wrote: "Be better soon Mark, commentary wont be the same without you."
Webster forged an impressive career as a player. In 2008, he was crowned BDO world champion after defeating Simon Whitlock in the final. He later switched to the PDC, where he twice reached the semi-finals of the World Championship. On those occasions, he lost to Phil Taylor and Adrian Lewis respectively.
The Welshman, known during his playing days by the nickname ‘The Spider’, ended his professional career in 2019. He struggled for a long time with dartitis, a mental block when throwing that severely affected his game.
Last year, Webster spoke candidly about its impact. He revealed that he was emotional backstage after a match against Daryl Gurney.
“I’m really anxious playing darts now. So for example, if you wanted me to come to your local club and play in some players, I’m just not interested.
“I don’t want that sort of appearance anymore. I’ve probably fallen out of love with playing the game now, which is a shame.
“But it’s because of the dartitis, it lingered for ages. It brought me to tears after games because I thought, ‘This could be the end.’”
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