Noa-Lynn Van Leuven Vows to Continue Fighting After Transgender Women's Ban from Women's Darts Events

Darts player Noa-Lynn Van Leuven has expressed her determination to keep fighting after being banned from competing in women's tournaments due to a new policy. The 29-year-old, who has won six titles on the women's tour since 2022, stated that the decision is not just about her, but also a significant setback for the trans community. Van Leuven, who became the first transgender woman to play at the World Darts Championship in 2024, emphasized that she has worked hard to get to where she is and has always respected the sport. The Darts Regulation Authority's ruling, which allows transgender women to compete in open tournaments but not women's events, has sparked controversy. Van Leuven referenced the recent IOC ban on transgender women from Olympic women's sports, saying that it is becoming increasingly difficult for trans people to exist and compete. She has received support from fellow players, including Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries, who have spoken out against the ban. Van Leuven has vowed to go back to the drawing board and continue fighting, stating that "this isn't the end" for her.