Beau Greaves has long been a dominant force in women’s darts, and she has now etched her name into the record books on the PDC Pro Tour by delivering three of the most memorable throws of her career. In a landmark moment, the 22‑year‑old from Doncaster became the first female player to claim a PDC ranking title, edging out Michael Smith 8‑7 in the final of Players Championship 11 on Monday. Greaves’ run in Milton Keynes was nothing short of extraordinary. She won seven consecutive matches, culminating in a dramatic deciding‑leg finish where she hit a 142 checkout against the fan‑favorite ‘Bully Boy’ to secure the title.
The victory was historic not only because it broke gender barriers, but also because of the caliber of opponents she defeated along the way. The two‑time Women’s World Matchplay champion eliminated a trio of former world champions—Rob Cross, Gary Anderson and Michael Smith—in her last three matches, underscoring the significance of her achievement.
When asked to reflect on the experience, Greaves admitted that the reality of the win was still sinking in. She described the final’s finishing combination—T20, T20, D11—as “three incredible darts” that she will remember forever. "It’s absolutely amazing.
I’m still in a bit of shock, but it’s something I can look back on and cherish for the rest of my life," she told Sky Sports. "I’m thrilled, and it will take me a while to fully process it." Greaves also spoke about the calm she felt after the match. "When I woke up that morning I felt relaxed and comfortable.
I was just happy and enjoying the games I was playing," she said. She noted that the deeper she progressed in the tournament, the tougher the competition became, and overcoming three world champions in succession made the triumph even sweeter. "The finish at the end was probably the best three darts I have ever thrown," she added. "Sometimes moments like that just happen, and that was my day." While many players celebrate wildly after such a historic win, Greaves chose a more low‑key approach.
When asked if she went out to celebrate, she replied, "I was invited to the pub but I said no. I went back to the hotel, had a slice of pizza and a hot chocolate, and then went to bed.
I called my family, and that was enough for me." Beyond the Players Championship, 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. In 2026 she also recorded two nine‑dart finishes, the latest of which came on the Development Tour on a Friday, further highlighting her rapid progression.
Greaves attributes her improvement to a combination of hard work and a genuine love for the sport. "The Pro Tour is the level I’ve wanted to be at for a while, and I feel I’m performing well, getting good results and deep runs," she explained.
"Hitting my first nine‑darter on the Pro Tour was especially special. I’m just really happy at the moment and enjoying life. I’ve always said I feel incredibly lucky to play darts for a living, and I try to make the most of it while I’m young, without putting too much pressure on myself." As a trailblazer in a traditionally male‑dominated sport, Greaves acknowledges the added pressure that comes with being a role model for young girls. She remains focused on her own game, but she also wants to “fly the flag” for aspiring female players.
"There is more pressure in a way, but I always try to concentrate on myself," she said. "Fallon Sherrock had her moment, and now I’m here trying to do the same. I want to give young girls someone to look up to, so I just play my game and enjoy everything I do." When asked about future ambitions, Greaves admitted that a Premier League spot is still a distant goal. "I would probably need to win the World Darts Championship to get into the Premier League," she noted.
"I never thought I’d win my first ranking title now, if ever, so I’m just going to enjoy the moment, get back to practice, and keep working hard. If I keep going the way I am, you never know where I might end up." Greaves’ story is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the evolving landscape of darts.
Her historic win not only shatters a glass ceiling but also inspires a new generation of female players to aim high. As the sport continues to grow, fans can look forward to more thrilling performances from this rising star, whether she’s battling for a World Grand Prix spot, chasing another nine‑dart finish, or simply enjoying the journey that has already taken her so far. For those following the Premier League Darts, Luke Humphries will defend his title this year, with matches airing every Thursday until May on Sky Sports. Viewers can stream the action and other top sporting events through NOW.