Multiple top-ranked female darts players have refused to compete alongside transgender players, leading the World Darts Federation (WDF) to issue a formal warning that those who withdraw from matches after a tournament starts may face disciplinary action. This warning comes after several female players pulled out of competitions when matched up against male-born transgender athletes.
The WDF clarified its stance ahead of key events like the World Masters and World Championships. In its statement, the WDF emphasized that player withdrawals could harm tournament sponsors, member countries, and the integrity of the ranking system. However, the WDF has not addressed the growing backlash from female players against competing with transgender athletes.
The controversy centers around No. 5-ranked transgender player Noa-Lynn van Leuven. In May 2024, No. 6 player Deta Hedman forfeited a match against van Leuven, stating, “No fake illness. I said I wouldn’t play a man in a ladies’ event.” Dutch players Aileen de Graaf and Anca Zijlstra have also withdrawn from tournaments over similar objections.
Hedman, who has repeatedly refused to play against transgender opponents, has been circulating a petition calling for a women-only division in darts, restricted to those born female. Her petition states, “Women and girls deserve fair competition in darts, and this means we need our own category, restricted to those born female.”
Despite the backlash, the WDF has so far maintained its stance, warning that players who withdraw after a tournament begins could face penalties, including disciplinary actions.
