Kyle Anderson dead at 33: Tributes paid to Australian darts star who reached last 32 of PDC World Championships
AUSTRALIAN darts star Kyle Anderson has passed away, aged 33.
Anderson, known as 'The Original', was a regular at the PDC World Championships - reaching the last 32 five times.
Hearn said: "We send our condolences and best wishes to Kyle's family and friends at this terribly sad time, particularly his wife and children.
"Kyle's achievements in his short-lived career were outstanding, notably his Auckland Darts Masters win, and a fitting reward for the sacrifices he made to follow his dream.
"He was a popular player on the tour and his talent and dedication made him an inspiration to other players around the world."
The darts ace, from Perth, contracted Covid-19 last year and suffered with diabetes, although his cause of death hasn't been confirmed.
Anderson quit the PDC tour at the beginning of the year due to complications related to the pandemic.
Anderson burst on to the scene in December 2013 after producing a televised nine-dart finish at the World Championship.
He was a regular at the Alexandra Palace each Christmas, making seven appearances and winning six matches on the PDC's biggest stage.
Anderson went on to reach the quarter-finals of the UK Open in 2016 and the semi-finals of the European Championship a year later.
And he almost achieved the unthinkable at the latter event, narrowly losing to the great Michael van Gerwen in a last-leg decider.
What terrible news to wake up to. What a nice friendly man. RIP pal. Thoughts go to all your family.
Phil Taylor
Anderson tasted success on the PDC tour, beating Gary Anderson, Simon Whitlock, James Wade and Corey Cadby to win the 2017 Auckland Masters.
Several darts players have paid tribute to Anderson, with Stephen Bunting tweeting: "Absolutely gutted hearing the news this morning.
"RIP Kyle Anderson. The darts world hasn't been the same with you not around brother. You always made me laugh every time we met.
"Never a dull moment with you around. We are gonna miss you mate."
Bobby George added: "RIP Kyle Anderson. Devastating news. Condolences go out to family and friends. Another sad day for the darts world."
A lovely man and always fun to be with, very sorry to hear about Kyle. We had many great games and a fantastic player. A credit to Australia and world darts. RIP mate.
Michael Van Gerwen
And reigning PDC world champ Gerwyn Price tweeted: "Such awful news to wake up to.
"Kyle, you was the nicest person in darts, always had time for everyone. You will be sadly missed, sending all my love and strength to your wife and young family. RIP brother."
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The star's death comes just a month after the death of darts legend Andy Fordham.
The Viking - a favourite on the British circuit - won the 2004 BDO World Darts Championship during an illustrious career.