Beau Greaves captured her third Women's World Matchplay crown in dramatic fashion, edging out Fallon Sherrock 6‑5 in a final that went down to the very last leg at Blackpool's historic Winter Gardens. The match was a showcase of nerves, skill and perseverance, with Greaves ultimately prevailing after a decisive 180 and a flawless 145 checkout that left her needing just 56 to finish the contest. She calmly hit double 10 to clinch the trophy, adding another milestone to an already impressive season. The victory marks Greaves' third triumph in this particular tournament, having previously won in 2023 and again in 2024.
In the 2024 final she also faced Sherrock, winning 6‑3, and the rivalry has become a focal point for women's darts. Sherrock, meanwhile, suffered her third consecutive runner‑up finish at the Matchplay, falling to Greaves in 2024 and 2026 and to Lisa Ashton in 2025. Speaking to Sky Sports after the win, Greaves admitted that she does not normally revel in celebrations, but the relief she felt was palpable.
“Fallon is a great competitor and an even better darts player,” she said. “I knew I had to play well, and when I hit that final dart it was an outpouring of relief.” Greaves' 2026 campaign has been nothing short of historic.
Earlier in the year she became the first woman to claim a Pro Tour title at Players Championship 11, a breakthrough that was followed by a nine‑dart finish on the main Tour and the distinction of being the first female qualifier for a European Tour event. Her continued success underscores the rapid rise of women’s darts and the increasing parity with the men’s circuit. The final itself lived up to its billing as a clash between the sport’s two leading female players.
Sherrock started brightly, breaking Greaves’ throw in the third leg and taking an early advantage. Greaves responded immediately, leveling the score at 2‑2 and then delivering a spectacular 120 checkout in a 12‑dart leg to seize the lead. From there the match turned into a tense back‑and‑forth, with each player taking turns to press for a decisive break.
In the pivotal eighth leg, Greaves secured a crucial break by hitting double 2, bringing her within a single leg of the championship. Sherrock, however, refused to surrender. She produced an impressive 36 finish after just nine darts and then claimed an 11‑dart break of throw, followed by a classy 70 checkout on double 16 to force a deciding leg. The final leg saw Greaves unleash her best darts once more.
She began with a perfect 180, then followed with a silky 145 that left her on 56. A calm double 10 sealed the match, confirming her place in the record books as a three‑time Matchplay champion. Greaves' path to the final was anything but easy.
In the quarter‑finals she endured a nail‑biting 5‑4 win over Gemma Hayter, after falling behind early and seeing Hayter level the match at 2‑2 with a break of throw. Hayter later broke again with an 83 checkout on double 16, forcing a last‑leg decider. Greaves rose to the occasion, delivering a massive 104 checkout to book her spot in the semi‑finals.
The semi‑final saw Greaves dominate Kirsi Viinikainen 5‑1, opening with a 148 checkout and then a 144, establishing early momentum that she never relinquished. Meanwhile, Sherrock demonstrated her own form by dispatching Deta Hedman 5‑0 in the quarter‑finals, producing two consecutive 13‑dart legs that left Hedman with no chance to recover. Other notable performances included Lisa Ashton’s 5‑2 victory over Welsh No 1 Rhian O’Sullivan, highlighted by a 120 checkout, and Vicky Pruim’s hard‑fought loss to Hayter after a dramatic comeback from 4‑2 down.
The tournament’s depth of talent was evident throughout, with each match offering moments of brilliance and high drama. Looking ahead, the 2026 Betfred World Matchplay will continue at the Winter Gardens on Sunday night, featuring defending champion Luke Littler against Gerwyn Price for the coveted Phil Taylor Trophy. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports or stream via NOW, ensuring the excitement of darts remains accessible to a global audience.
Greaves summed up her feelings about the sport and her career with heartfelt enthusiasm: “I love darts, I love my life, and I’m addicted to the game. Supporting the women’s side is massive for me, and my goal is simply to keep improving.” Her words reflect both personal passion and a broader commitment to elevating women’s darts on the world stage. In summary, Beau Greaves’ 6‑5 victory over Fallon Sherrock not only secured a record third Matchplay title but also highlighted the growing competitiveness and visibility of women’s darts.
The match was a masterclass in composure under pressure, and Greaves’ continued success is poised to inspire the next generation of players.