Tensions in the world of professional darts have erupted once again after women’s world champion Beau Greaves launched a scathing critique of transgender player Noa-Lynn van Leuven, insisting that the integrity of women’s competition must be protected.
Speaking to reporters following her latest tournament victory, the 23-year-old English star did not hold back. When asked about the growing inclusion of transgender athletes in the women’s circuit, Greaves replied bluntly:
“Allow the ladies play in peace. That’s all I’m saying.”
While she did not name van Leuven directly in her opening statement, Greaves later confirmed her comments were aimed at the Dutch player’s participation in women’s events. Van Leuven, who transitioned in 2022, has rapidly risen through the ranks and recently secured multiple podium finishes in mixed and women’s competitions.
Greaves, who has dominated the Women’s Series with record-breaking averages, argued that biological differences create an uneven playing field.
“I’ve got nothing against anyone as a person. But darts is a sport, and sport has to be fair. It’s not about being transphobic — it’s about protecting the opportunities we’ve fought for. These events are called ‘women’s’ for a reason.”
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) and the World Darts Federation (WDF) currently allow transgender players to compete in women’s categories provided their testosterone levels have been below a certain threshold for 12 months. Critics argue that testosterone suppression does not erase all physiological advantages gained during male puberty.
Van Leuven has previously spoken about the abuse she receives online, saying in interviews that she simply wants to play the sport she loves. “I’m not a threat to women’s darts — I’m just another competitor,” she said last month.
Reaction to Greaves’ comments has been sharply divided. Some fellow female players have privately backed her stance, though few have gone public. Others, including former world champion Lisa Ashton, have urged calm, stating: “The rules are there for a reason. We follow them.”
Supporters of van Leuven have accused Greaves of fueling a toxic atmosphere. One fan wrote on social media: “Beau is a phenomenal player, but this just adds to the hate Noa-Lynn gets daily.”
Meanwhile, van Leuven has remained silent on Greaves’ latest remarks. Her manager confirmed she is focused on upcoming tournaments and will not be engaging in a public war of words.
The controversy places darts alongside swimming, cycling, and rugby in the wider debate over transgender participation in elite women’s sport. With the World Championship season approaching, governing bodies may now face renewed pressure to review their policies.
For now, Greaves is unapologetic.
“I’m saying what a lot of the girls are scared to say. Let us play. Fair and square.”
