George Noble, the veteran darts referee, will officiate his final match at the World Championship final later this month, bringing a 30-year career to a close. The 57-year-old, who spent nearly two decades with the PDC after starting in the BDO, has decided to step down to devote more time to his family, though he plans to remain involved in the sport.
Noble, an ardent Millwall fan, is known by the nickname 'The Puppy', though he admits 'Hound Dog' is more fitting now. He reflects on his career with fondness, having overseen historic moments such as Raymond van Barneveld's first nine-darter at the PDC World Championship in 2007 and Phil Taylor's two nine-darters in the 2010 Premier League final.
"I've had a brilliant career in over three decades and spent my whole life in the sport, but the time is right for me to retire from refereeing," Noble said. "I'll still be involved in darts away from refereeing, but this will give me the chance to spend more time with my family." He thanked the PDC for the opportunity given to him in 2007.
Noble joins a list of prominent referees to retire in recent years, including Russ Bray and Paul Hinks. He is also not the only familiar figure stepping away after the 2025/26 World Championship, as legendary announcer John McDonald will also bow out.
PDC chief executive Matt Porter paid tribute to both men, stating: "John and George have been two huge pieces in the PDC jigsaw over the last 20 years. Their contributions to darts have been enormous, and we wish them every success and happiness for the future."
