Darts Player Noa-Lynn van Leuven Restricted from Women’s Tournaments After New WDF Policy Change

The World Darts Federation (WDF) has announced a new eligibility policy for its events, which will limit participation in women’s tournaments to players listed as female at birth. The change means Dutch player Noa-Lynn van Leuven, currently ranked fourth on the PDC Women’s Order of Merit, will now only be able to compete in the WDF’s Open category, which includes players of all genders.

The updated policy, effective from July 28, 2025, follows a vote held during the organization’s 2024 general meeting, where members agreed to revise eligibility definitions for gender-specific events.

 The Policy Update

In its statement, the WDF outlined:

“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.”

Under the new framework, competitions will now be categorized into Open, Women, Open Youth, and Girls divisions. Players ineligible for the women’s events will have access to the Open category, which includes all participants regardless of gender identity.

The rule was passed by a majority of member nations. WDF President Tim Ollerenshaw said the decision followed extensive consultation and acknowledged it may be “challenging for some players,” while emphasizing that the federation’s intent was to maintain fairness and clarity in tournament structures.

 Impact on Noa-Lynn van Leuven

Van Leuven, 28, who currently holds a PDC Tour Card for the 2025–26 season, will continue to compete in Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) events, which remain unaffected by the WDF’s changes. She is best known for becoming the first player to represent the trans community in a televised PDC tournament in 2024.

Despite the new WDF ruling, van Leuven remains eligible for all PDC competitions, including the upcoming World Darts Championship (December 15, 2025 – January 3, 2026), where she made her debut last year.

The new rule, however, restricts participation in WDF women’s tournaments such as the Dutch Open and World Cup qualifiers, where she previously competed.

 Van Leuven’s Response

Van Leuven shared her thoughts in a social media post on July 31, describing the situation as disappointing but affirming her continued dedication to the sport:

“I love this game too much to stop. I’ll keep playing wherever I can.”

Her post received widespread attention, with fans and fellow professionals offering encouragement. Michael van Gerwen publicly supported her right to compete, commenting:

“Noa-Lynn is determined and talented — darts should always be about ability.”

 Career Overview

Van Leuven has enjoyed a strong 2025 season, reaching the Women’s World Matchplay semi-finals and achieving a nine-darter on the Challenge Tour — the first by a female player. She currently ranks fourth on the Women’s Order of Merit and continues to build momentum in professional circuits.

Her televised matches, including her 2024 Ally Pally debut, have drawn large audiences and helped bring greater attention to women’s darts.

 The Broader Sporting Context

The WDF’s decision follows similar eligibility reviews by several international sports organizations. Recent years have seen governing bodies introduce new participation categories aimed at balancing inclusion and competitive fairness.

While reactions across the darts community remain mixed, both sides of the discussion emphasize the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship.

 Public and Player Reactions

Across social media, fans and fellow professionals expressed support for van Leuven’s perseverance and professionalism:

• Beau Greaves: “Keep playing your game, Noa. Everyone respects your effort.”
• Fallon Sherrock: “Stay strong and focused — darts is for everyone.”

The debate continues under the hashtag #VanLeuvenPolicy, with thousands of comments calling for unity and fairness across the sport.

Summary

The WDF’s eligibility changes represent a major structural shift in amateur and international darts.
While some players now face new restrictions, others see the policy as part of a broader effort to clarify competition categories.

For Noa-Lynn van Leuven, the focus remains the same — playing the game she loves and inspiring others through dedication, resilience, and sportsmanship.