Australian darts star Kyle Anderson has passed away at the age of 33.
The Aussie was one of just 8 players ever to hit a 9-darter at the PDC World Championship, when he did so against Ian White in 2014.
He reached the last 32 at the Alexandra Palace four times, becoming a crowd favourite.
Anderson hit another televised nine-darter in the 2017 European Championship. He also represented his country four times at the World Cup of Darts alongside Simon Whitlock.
'The Original' joined the Tour in 2012, winning the Players Championship and Auckland Darts Masters in 2017.
He relinquished his tour card at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, opting to stay in Australia ahead of the birth of his second child.
Tributes have been paid to Anderson across the darting world.
Three-time world champion Michael Van Gerwen has led those tributes.
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 Australian and world darts. RIP mate. ?? pic.twitter.com/1tpS9U5HZY
— Michael Van Gerwen (@MvG180) August 24, 2021
Darting legend Phil 'The Power' Taylor has also expressed his sadness.
What terrible news to wake up to what a nice friendly man. @KyleDarts RIP pal.
Thoughts go to all your family.— Phil Taylor (@PhilTaylor) August 24, 2021
"We send our condolences and best wishes to Kyle's family and friends at this terribly sad time, particularly his wife and children," said PDC president Barry Hearn.
"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."
