Darts world champion Deta Hedman has described feeling "absolutely over the moon" and "marvellous" after receiving an OBE from the Princess Royal at a ceremony in London. The 66-year-old athlete, known affectionately as the Caribbean Queen, was honoured for her outstanding services to darts and extensive charity work, particularly with disabled children.
A Lifetime of Achievement Recognised
The prestigious award comes just months after Ms Hedman's triumphant victory at the 2025 WDF Women's World Championship, where she defeated top seed Lerena Rietbergen 4-1 to claim the title. This remarkable achievement capped a professional career spanning five decades, during which she has become one of darts' most respected and beloved figures.
Royal Recognition at St James's Palace
At Thursday's investiture ceremony held at St James's Palace, Ms Hedman collected her OBE from the Princess Royal, who is herself known for her sporting achievements. "I am still overwhelmed," Ms Hedman confessed after the ceremony. "After all this time since I knew about it, the honour, it still has not sunk in."
The darts champion, who hails from Witham in Essex, expressed particular delight at meeting a royal family member who shares her passion for sport. "I am absolutely over the moon, especially to have met one of the royals who is a sportswoman herself," she added with evident enthusiasm.
From Jamaica to World Champion
Born in St Thomas, Jamaica, Ms Hedman moved to St Mary before relocating to the United Kingdom 53 years ago. Her journey to the pinnacle of darts has been one of persistence and dedication. Reflecting on her recent world championship victory, she noted: "I have been trying for 15 years and four finals and finally won the world championship."
The Heart of Darts: Charity Work and Legacy
The World Darts Federation has fittingly nicknamed Ms Hedman "The Heart of Darts" in recognition of her extensive charitable contributions, particularly her work supporting disabled children. Beyond her competitive achievements, she has served as a long-term ambassador for England youth teams, helping to nurture the next generation of darts talent.
A Decorated Career
Ms Hedman's trophy cabinet tells the story of an extraordinary sporting career:
- Won her first WDF ranking title at the Finnish Open in 1989
- Five-time World Masters finalist, winning the event in 1994 and 2013
- Europe Cup and World Cup Singles champion
- Eight WDF Cup Pairs titles with five different partners
- 2025 WDF Women's World Championship winner
This OBE recognition represents not just acknowledgement of sporting excellence, but celebration of a career that has combined competitive success with meaningful community contribution. As the darts community celebrates this honour, Ms Hedman's legacy continues to inspire both current players and future generations.
