Dutch darts player Noa-Lynn van Leuven has made history by becoming the first trans woman to qualify for the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Championship. Van Leuven, who began her gender transition in 2021, secured her place in the prestigious mixed-gender competition after defeating English player Beau Greaves 5-3 in the PDC Women’s Series event in Leicester. Her success in this event marks a significant moment, not only for her career but also for the visibility of transgender athletes in the world of competitive sports.
Despite her remarkable achievement, van Leuven has faced intense scrutiny and hostility from certain corners of the darts community. Following her win, social media erupted with misgendering and accusations, with some detractors even calling her a “cheater” and claiming she “stole a spot from a woman.” Such reactions highlight the ongoing challenges transgender athletes face in sports, even in competitions like darts, where physical advantage is not the primary factor. Van Leuven, however, remains focused on her passion for the game despite the abuse, which has included death threats and severe online harassment.
Van Leuven’s struggles are part of a broader conversation about trans inclusion in sports. Her involvement in the PDC Women’s Series has led to strong opposition, including from figures like tennis legend Martina Navratilova, who has repeatedly argued against the participation of trans women in women’s sports. Additionally, some of Van Leuven’s peers, including Anca Zijlstra and Aileen de Graaf, have left the Dutch women’s team in protest. Van Leuven’s experience, though harsh, shines a light on the need for greater education and respect for gender diversity in the world of sports.
Despite the criticism, darts authorities have maintained policies aimed at fostering inclusion. The Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) upholds a policy supporting transgender and non-binary players, ensuring they are treated with respect and allowed to compete in accordance with their gender identity. As Noa-Lynn van Leuven prepares for the World Championships, her participation not only challenges stereotypes but also demonstrates the resilience of transgender athletes in the face of adversity.