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After the Darts Regulatory Authority (DRA) approved a new policy banning biological males from competing in women’s competitions, a transgender competitor has spoken out to criticize the decision.
Dutchwoman Noa-Lynn van Leuven spoke out on Thursday against the new policy.
“Apparently I was just retired, not by choice, but because I can no longer compete,” Van Leuven said in an Instagram video.
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Protesters against transgender athletes competing in women’s sports gather in front of the Supreme Court on January 13, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Heather Diehl/Getty Images)
“I’ve worked so hard for years to get here. I showed up, I competed. I respected the sport every game, every day. And now, with just one decision, I’m being told I no longer belong. This isn’t just about me. This is another huge success for the trans community.”
Van Leuven suggested taking more measures to be able to participate in women’s competitions.
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A protester carries a transgender pride flag in front of the Supreme Court while hearing arguments over state laws that ban transgender girls and women from playing on school sports teams, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, in Washington. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP)
“This is not the end. I’m just going back to the drawing board. I’m not done fighting,” the player said.
Van Leuven had competed in the Professional Darts Corporation Women’s Series and, in 2024, became the first transgender player to play in the PDC World Darts Championship women’s competition.
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Protesters wave transgender pride flags in front of the Supreme Court as it hears arguments over state laws that ban transgender girls and women from playing on school sports teams, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP)
The DRA said in a statement on Thursday that it had begun a review of its policies in 2025. It included commissioning a report from “an academic developmental biologist who has published several articles on sex and categories in sport. The DRA has also considered extensive legal advice.”
“As a result of its review, the DRA is satisfied that to achieve fair competition in darts, only biological females should be eligible to compete in women’s tournaments regulated by the DRA Rules,” it said.
