Noa-Lynn van Leuven has made headlines as the first transgender darts player to qualify for the PDC World Darts Championship, after an impressive victory over top-ranked Beau Greaves in the finals of Women’s Series 21.
The Dutch athlete secured her spot at the prestigious event in December and January with a thrilling 5-3 win, boasting an average score of 109.64.
She’ll be joining darts legends like Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, and Michael van Gerwen on the big stage at Alexandra Palace.
Breaking Barriers
At just 28 years old, van Leuven has already carved her name in history as the first trans woman to win a PDC Tour event.
She has accumulated an impressive four titles in 2024 alone.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, van Leuven shared her emotions: “I didn’t dare believe it. Everything just came out. You work for this for a whole year. Then this really does something to you.”
With pride and determination in her voice, she added, “Noa, I am really proud of you. You did so well. I think I can be proud too.”
Facing Opposition
Despite her groundbreaking success, van Leuven faces significant pushback from some of her competitors.
Notably, British darts star Deta Hedman and others have advocated for a ban on transgender athletes from participating in ranked women’s tournaments.
In response, van Leuven voiced her frustration to Dutch outlet NU, referring to some opponents as “a lot of conservative, toxic b****es on the women’s tour.”
As the WDF (World Darts Federation) World Cup approaches—an event van Leuven previously won gold in—rumors surfaced about a new ruling that could prevent trans women from competing in WDF events.
The timing of this decision remains uncertain, but van Leuven’s reaction was one of anger.
“This is discrimination. We have been thrown back 40 years with the sport of darts,” she asserted, emphasizing the harmful impact of such decisions on her career.
The Emotional Toll
Van Leuven revealed the intense emotional strain she has endured, stating, “People send the most terrible messages, and then go on preparing their pasta. They have no idea the impact it has on my life.”
The negativity forced her to withdraw for weeks, dealing with panic attacks and fear.
Yet, she sees her participation in the PDC World Championship as a powerful statement against the backlash.
“Standing there as the first Dutch woman is already the ultimate middle finger for me.”
The Journey to Happiness
After her victory over Greaves, van Leuven expressed shock at the overwhelming response, particularly the influx of supportive messages.
“I have already received invitations from three or four talk shows, but I don’t know what I’m going to do with them yet.”
Despite the positivity, she still grapples with negative comments, admitting that they affect her emotionally, but she chooses to focus on her own path and plans.
Reflecting on her transition, van Leuven credits it with saving her life. “If I didn’t have the transition, I wouldn’t be here anymore,” she shared candidly.
The years leading up to her transition were marked by depression and a lack of joy.
“I didn’t have anything to live for. Then I realized I am trans; I should do something with that, or I am not going to make anything out of my life.”
Now, van Leuven embraces her love for darts, the thrill of competition, and the connections she’s made through the sport.
“I really love darts, I love playing it, I love meeting new people and traveling, and that is all possible because of darts.”
What Lies Ahead
As she prepares for the championship, van Leuven stands not just as a competitor but as a symbol of resilience and determination, pushing boundaries and inspiring others in the process.
Her journey is just beginning, and many are excited to see what she will achieve next.
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