December 17th 2024.
On Tuesday, Noa-Lynn van Leuven will make her debut at the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, becoming the first transgender player to compete in the prestigious event. However, despite this historic moment, the 28-year-old wants her skills on the dartboard to be the focus, not her gender identity.
Speaking to PA, the Dutch star shared her thoughts on the significance of her participation: "It's a big achievement for me and for my community. But at the end of the day, I just want to be known as Noa. I'm a darts player and I happen to be transgender. I don't want to constantly talk about my identity, I just want to play the game I love."
Transitioning and pursuing a career in darts have completely transformed Van Leuven's life, taking her from a dark and unhappy place to one of fulfillment and joy. In an interview with PA last year, she revealed, "If I hadn't gone through my transition, I don't think I would still be here today. The years before were a struggle, I was depressed and didn't see a future for myself."
However, after realizing her true identity and seeking medical help, Van Leuven found a new purpose in darts. "I've been playing for nine years, but it wasn't until after my transition that I started to enjoy the game again. Darts gave me something to live for and I am grateful for that," she shared.
Despite facing criticism, Van Leuven has made significant progress in the women's darts circuit. She finished second in the PDC Women's Series Order of Merit this year, earning her a spot at the Grand Slam last month and now the World Championship.
In an interview with Dutch publication Nu, Van Leuven credited her improved performance to feeling more comfortable in her own skin. "I throw better now because I feel more at ease. It takes time and effort, but I have invested both in my game. Not many women do that, but I do. And I have proven that I can compete with men," she said.
Alongside her darts career, Van Leuven also works as a junior sous chef, combining her two passions into her profession. "I have two major hobbies - darts and cooking - and I turned them both into my job," she shared.
Despite her success, Van Leuven has faced criticism from some in the women's darts community. Veteran player Deta Hedman has been vocal about her opposition to transgender players competing in women's events, even forfeiting a match against Van Leuven at the Denmark Open earlier this year.
However, Van Leuven remains unfazed by the backlash, saying, "There are a lot of conservative, toxic people on the women's tour who see me as a threat. But there are also those who secretly support me and don't understand what all the fuss is about."
In response to the criticism, PDC chief executive Matt Porter defended their decision to allow transgender women to compete in women's events, stating that it was a carefully considered and fair solution. He also acknowledged that not everyone may agree with their stance, but it is one that they are comfortable with.
Van Leuven has received support from male players, with current world champion Luke Humphries and three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen both wishing her well. Humphries emphasized that she is a darts player first and foremost, while Van Gerwen spoke out against the bullying and harassment she has faced.
As she prepares for her debut at Alexandra Palace, Van Leuven remains focused on her game and hopes to inspire others through her journey. "I am happy and have so much to live for now. I love darts, I love playing it, and I love the opportunities it has given me," she said.
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