Beau Greaves has long been a dominant force in women’s darts, and she has now etched her name into the sport’s record books with a trio of throws she describes as her "best darts ever." The 22‑year‑old from Doncaster became the first woman to capture a PDC ranking title when she edged Michael Smith 8‑7 in the final of Players Championship 11 on Monday. That victory was the culmination of a remarkable run in Milton Keynes, where she won seven consecutive matches, including a dramatic deciding‑leg finish that featured a 142 checkout against the fan‑favorite "Bully Boy" to clinch a historic triumph.
Greaves’ path to the title was anything but easy. Along the way she dispatched three former world champions – Rob Cross, Gary Anderson and Michael Smith – in the latter stages of the tournament.
After the win, she admitted the achievement still feels surreal, but she knows that the final combination of a treble‑20, treble‑20 and double‑11 that secured the title was truly extraordinary. "It’s absolutely amazing. I’m still in a bit of shock, but this is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life," she told Sky Sports. "I’m thrilled, and it will take me a while to fully absorb it." When asked about her emotions on the morning after the final, Greaves said she felt unusually relaxed and content.
"I woke up feeling really chilled and comfortable. I was just happy and enjoying the games I’d played," she recalled.
She noted that as the competition progressed, the quality of opposition rose sharply, making the feat of beating three world champions in succession all the more special. "The finish at the end was probably the best three darts I have ever thrown," she added, emphasizing how rare such moments are.
"Sometimes they just happen, and that day was my day. I played incredibly well and even surprised myself. I was nervous, but I managed to push through." While many players might have celebrated wildly after such a landmark victory, Greaves opted for a low‑key approach.
"I was invited to the pub, but I turned it down," she said with a smile. Instead, she returned to her hotel, treated herself to a slice of pizza and a hot chocolate, and called her family – a simple gesture that felt sufficient.
"That was good enough for me," she explained. Beyond the historic win, Greaves has continued to thrive as a PDC Tour Card holder. Her recent success brings her within £4,000 of the provisional qualification spots for October’s World Grand Prix, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. She has also recorded two nine‑dart finishes in 2026, the latest coming on the Development Tour last Friday.
"The Pro Tour is the level I’ve been aiming for for a while, and I’m finally delivering strong results and deep runs," she said. "Hitting my first nine‑darter on the Tour was incredibly special." Greaves attributes her progress to a combination of hard work and a balanced mindset. "I’m genuinely happy right now and enjoying life," she affirmed. "I’ve always felt extremely lucky to be able to play darts professionally, and I try not to stress myself too much.
I just want to make the most of my youth and have fun while I can." As a trailblazer in a sport traditionally dominated by men, Greaves is keenly aware of the pressure that comes with her role. She says she copes by staying focused on her own game and by using her platform to inspire young girls. "There is more pressure in a way, but I always try to concentrate on myself," she explained.
"Fallon Sherrock had her moment, and now I’m trying to create my own legacy. I want to fly the flag for young girls and give them someone to look up to." When asked about potential Premier League ambitions, Greaves was realistic yet hopeful. "I’d probably need to win the World Darts Championship to get a spot in the Premier League," she said. "I never imagined I’d win my first ranking title, let alone a historic one, so I’m just going to enjoy this moment, get back to practice, and keep working hard.
If I keep progressing the way I am, who knows where I might end up?" Greaves’ story illustrates how perseverance, talent, and a grounded attitude can break barriers and reshape expectations. Her achievements not only mark personal milestones but also pave the way for future generations of female darts players. As the sport continues to evolve, Beau Greaves stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when dedication meets opportunity.