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 what she describes as three of the "best darts ever" on the PDC Pro Tour. In a landmark moment, the 22‑year‑old from Doncaster became the first female player to capture a PDC ranking title, edging out Michael Smith 8‑7 in the final of Players Championship 11 on Monday. Greaves’ path to the trophy was nothing short of spectacular. She powered through seven consecutive matches in Milton Keynes, culminating in a dramatic deciding‑leg finish that saw her hit a 142 checkout against the charismatic Michael "Bully Boy" Smith.
That decisive throw not only secured the championship but also marked a historic first for women in the PDC circuit. Along the way, the two‑time Women’s World Matchplay champion dismantled a trio of former world champions.
She dispatched Rob Cross, Gary Anderson, and finally Smith in the last three rounds, showcasing a blend of composure, precision, and mental toughness rarely seen at her age. When asked to reflect on the experience, Greaves admitted that the reality of the achievement was still sinking in, but she was certain that her final combination – T20, T20, D11 – represented three of the most extraordinary darts she has ever thrown. "It is absolutely amazing.
I am still in a bit of shock now but it is something I can look back on and remember forever," she told Sky Sports. "I am chuffed and it will take me a while to get over it." Greaves described the day’s emotions with vivid honesty.
"When I woke up that morning I felt really chilled and comfortable. I was just happy and enjoying the games I was playing.
The further you get, the tougher the opposition becomes, and beating three world champions in a row made it even more special. The finish at the end was probably the best three darts I have ever thrown.
Sometimes moments like that just happen and I had my day that day. I played really well and shocked myself. I was definitely nervous but luckily I got through it." While many of her peers celebrated with exuberant parties, Greaves opted for a low‑key approach.
"I was invited to the pub but I said no," she said with a smile. "I went back to the hotel, had a slice of pizza, a hot chocolate, and went to bed. I called my family and that was more than enough for me." The World Youth Championship runner‑up has adapted seamlessly to life as a PDC Tour Card holder, and this breakthrough victory brings her within £4,000 of the provisional qualification spots for the October World Grand Prix, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
In addition, Greaves has already recorded two nine‑dart finishes in 2026, the most recent of which came on the Development Tour last Friday. She attributes her rapid progress to a combination of hard work and a genuine love for the game. "The Pro Tour is the level I have wanted to be at for a while, and I seem to be performing well and getting good results.
Hitting my first nine‑darter there was really special. I am just really happy at the moment and I am truly enjoying life.
I have always said I feel extremely lucky to play darts for a living, and I try to enjoy my life while I am young and not stress myself out too much." As a trailblazer in a sport historically dominated by men, Greaves acknowledges the added pressure that comes with her pioneering status. Yet she remains focused on her own game and on inspiring the next generation of young girls. "There is more pressure in a way but I have always tried to concentrate on myself," she explained.
"Fallon Sherrock had her time and I have come along and I am trying to do that as well. I am trying to fly the flag for young girls out there. I probably feel more pressure that way. I just want to be successful and give young girls someone to look up to.
I just try and play my game and enjoy everything I play in." When asked about future ambitions, particularly a spot in the Premier League, Greaves was realistic yet hopeful. "I would probably need to win the World Darts Championship to get into the Premier League," she said. "I never thought I would win my first ranking title now, if ever, so I am just going to enjoy the moment, get back to practicing, and work hard. If I keep going the way I am, you never know where I might end up." Greaves’ historic win not only reshapes the narrative around women in darts but also adds a fresh storyline to the broader competitive landscape.
As the Premier League approaches, defending champion Luke Humphries will be looking to retain his title, while fans will be watching closely to see if Greaves’ meteoric rise will eventually lead her onto that coveted stage. For now, her focus remains on honing her craft, enjoying each match, and continuing to break barriers for future generations of female dart players.