Transgender darts star Noa-Lynn van Leuven heartbroken over ban from tournaments and hits back

Transgender darts player Noa-Lynn van Leuven has been left heartbroken after being barred from competing in women's tournaments run by the World Darts Federation (WDF). The WDF has revised its eligibility criteria for its women's competitions following a member vote, triggered by a proposal at a general meeting to limit participation to those who are born female.

Van Leuven, 28, the first openly transgender darts player, can only now play in an 'open' category, which is inclusive of all genders. She remains eligible to compete in women's events run by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), which has different regulations.

Last year, she took one of the spots reserved for female players at the PDC World Championship at Alexandra Palace after qualifying via the Women's Series and could do the same at the 2025/26 tournament.

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A WDF spokesperson announced: "Effective Monday 28 July 2025, entry and participation in WDF Women's and Girls Ranking Tournaments and Cups will only be open to players that are WOMEN/FEMALE as defined under this policy."

"Accordingly, WDF Tournaments, Cups and Ranking Tables will be renamed and redefined as 'Open', 'Women', 'Open Youth' and 'Girls' tournaments and cups. We understand these changes may be challenging for people who want to compete in darts in the gender which they are now registered as."

The WDF has also contacted its Member Countries to facilitate discussions about the new rules with the players they impact.

Taking to Instagram, Van Leuven made her feelings clear on the WDF's new policy. She said: "This past Monday, the WDF released a new policy regarding gender eligibility. I want to take a moment to respond.

"This decision does affect me personally - though, thankfully, not too severely at this point in time. But still, it hurts. Once again, it's a loss for the trans community in sports. And that breaks my heart."

Highlighting the importance of genuine inclusion, she added: "As a trans person in the darts world, I know how vital inclusion is - not just on paper, but in practice.

"It's disheartening to see yet another policy framed around 'fairness' that ultimately results in exclusion, without truly considering the people behind the labels.

"My heart goes out to all the athletes impacted by this. We remain visible. We keep going."

Van Leuven has faced significant challenges since she transitioned, including receiving death threats. She recently took a break from darts for mental health reasons.

During last weekend's Women's World Matchplay in Blackpool, three protesters were ejected after they targeted Van Leuven during her walk-on. One displayed a "he's a man" banner, while another wore a 'Save Women's Sport' T-shirt.