Transgender Darts Player Vows to Continue Fighting After Ban from Women's Events

Noa-Lynn Van Leuven has expressed her determination to keep fighting after being banned from competing in women's darts tournaments. The 29-year-old, who has won six titles on the women's tour, made history as the first transgender woman to play at the World Darts Championship in 2024. Van Leuven's comments came after the Darts Regulation Authority announced its decision to bar transgender women from participating in women's events, citing the need for 'fair competition.' The ruling allows transgender women to continue competing in open tournaments. Van Leuven stated, 'This isn't just about me, it's another huge hit for the trans community.' The DRA's decision follows a review of its policies, which included consulting with an academic developmental biologist and seeking extensive legal advice. Van Leuven, also known as 'The Duchess,' has been a trailblazer in the sport, becoming the first trans woman to play in a TV tournament at the Women's Matchplay in 2023. She has received support from fellow players, including Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries, but has also faced opposition from some of her competitors. Van Leuven has vowed to continue playing darts and 'having fun,' saying, 'This isn't the end. I'm just going back to the drawing board. I'm not done fighting.'