Legendary Darts MC Announces Emotional Retirement After Littler vs Van Veen Final — Reveals Heartbreaking Reason Behind Decision
The darts world is preparing for a historic night as Luke Littler and Gian van Veen get set to face each other in the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship final. While the spotlight will naturally fall on the two young stars battling for the sport’s biggest prize, there is another storyline that has left fans deeply emotional. One of darts’ most recognisable voices has confirmed that this final will mark the end of an era.
Long-serving darts MC John McDonald has announced that he will retire immediately after the Littler vs Van Veen final, bringing the curtain down on a career that has spanned more than two decades at the very top of the sport. Known for his booming introductions, infectious energy and ability to lift an arena before a dart is even thrown, McDonald has been a constant presence at the World Championship and major PDC events around the globe.
However, behind the confident voice and larger-than-life persona lies a deeply personal reason for his decision — one that has resonated with fans and players alike.
Speaking candidly about his retirement, McDonald revealed that the relentless travel and commitment required by the role had forced him to miss too many irreplaceable family moments. While he described darts as a passion and privilege, he admitted that the balance had gradually shifted, and the sacrifices were becoming harder to justify.
“I’ve spent most of my adult life behind a microphone, travelling week in and week out,” he explained. “And I loved every second of it. But there comes a point where you realise you’ve missed things you can never get back.”
The moment that truly hit home came when McDonald had to turn down the chance to attend his grandson’s football match because of work commitments. What might seem like a small moment to some became a powerful wake-up call for him. He admitted that it made him stop and reflect on how many birthdays, school events and simple family occasions had passed him by over the years.
“I’ve got eight grandchildren now,” he said. “And they deserve more of my time than I’ve been able to give. One day you realise that life keeps moving while you’re away doing the job.”
McDonald stressed that his decision was not driven by burnout or a loss of love for darts. On the contrary, he remains as passionate about the sport as ever. Instead, it was about choosing how he wants to spend the next chapter of his life — closer to home, surrounded by family, and present for the moments that matter most.
His retirement brings an emotional edge to a final that already carries huge significance. The clash between Littler and Van Veen represents the future of darts — two players who previously faced each other at youth level and have now risen to contest the sport’s biggest title on the world stage. For McDonald, announcing their names one last time feels symbolic: a passing of the torch from one era to the next.
Reflecting on his career, McDonald spoke with pride rather than regret. He has introduced world champions, witnessed historic comebacks, and played his part in creating the electric atmosphere that has made events like the World Championship iconic.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky,” he said. “I’ve stood on stages people only dream of and been part of moments that will live forever in darts history.”
As the final at Alexandra Palace approaches, fans are already preparing to give him a send-off worthy of his contribution. When his voice echoes around the venue one last time, it will not just signal the start of a world championship final — it will mark the end of a remarkable chapter in darts history.
For John McDonald, the applause will fade, the lights will dim, and a new role awaits — not as the voice of darts, but as a grandfather choosing family first.
Leave a Reply