Deta Hedman Criticizes Rules for Trans Players Competing in Female Darts Events, Advocates for Lower Testosterone Limits in England

Deta Hedman, a well-known name in the world of darts, has once again voiced her concerns about trans players competing in female events.

The 64-year-old, who has been a three-time World Championship finalist, made headlines back in May when she withdrew from a match at the Denmark Open, refusing to play against trans player Noa-Lynn van Leuven.

Hedman stood by her decision, telling the German media outlet Bild, “I’m not playing against a man in a women’s event.”

Following her recent victory at the Women’s World Matchplay, Beau Greaves spoke out about the disparity between female and male players, labeling it “silly” to expect women to compete on the same level as men like Luke Littler.

Greaves revealed her decision to decline an opportunity to face male players at the World Championship later this year.

In light of this, Hedman has readdressed the issue, suggesting that trans players should not compete against women until their testosterone levels are significantly reduced.

She took to Facebook to elaborate on her position, stating that while she has no issues with trans individuals, they should compete in an open category rather than in women’s events.

Concerns About Testosterone Levels

Hedman highlighted what she views as inconsistencies in how testosterone levels are regulated.

She pointed out that the current limit for trans women in darts is set at 9.9 nmol/L, compared to the typical range of 0.5-2.4 nmol/L for cisgender women.

This discrepancy, she argues, puts female players at a disadvantage.

Additionally, Hedman referenced a situation where African women with high testosterone levels were barred from competing, contrasting their stricter limits with those applied to trans players.

Advocating for Fairness in Sports

In her statement, Hedman suggested a potential compromise: lowering the testosterone limit for trans women to align more closely with the upper range for cisgender women.

She emphasized that while inclusivity is important, fairness in women’s sports should not be compromised.

The Gender Performance Gap

Hedman also addressed the performance gap between men and women in darts.

Citing data from the recent World Matchplay, she compared the average scores of male and female players, highlighting the statistical differences.

According to Hedman, studies by Dr. Linda Duffy support the notion that men have physical advantages in darts due to differences in shoulder and elbow formations resulting from puberty.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

Historically, women like Fallon Sherrock have competed against men on the grand stage of darts, with Sherrock making a notable run in the 2020 World Championship.

However, since then, no female player has managed to replicate that success.

Greaves, who was also defeated in her debut at the 2023 tournament, has chosen to forego her spot at this year’s event, mirroring Hedman’s stance of not competing against men or trans players in the future.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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