HEMPEL HITS OUT AT SEXIST CULTURE DRIVING WOMEN AWAY FROM DARTS
17/10/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
FLORIAN HEMPEL has hit out at the lack of respect for women in darts and warns sexist behaviour is stopping female players from progressing in Germany.
Cologne thrower Hempel believes talented women are being driven away from the sport due to inappropriate comments and a toxic atmosphere in male-dominated settings.
World No. 54 Hempel reckons Germany is still “way behind” England when it comes to supporting female players.
Hempel recently attended a darts workshop in Franconia and said he witnessed first-hand how difficult it remains for women to feel comfortable competing alongside men.
He told the Game On Podcast: “In order for us to see even more talent and for them to have the courage to really take this step, we need to rethink the entire environment.
“We still have a huge problem with women in darts.”
The 35-year-old recalled one talented young player who told him she often feels uncomfortable playing among men because of how she’s treated.
He added: “She told me that it’s not easy to play among men.
“She’d do it more often if it weren’t for the comments and the flirting.
“You’re looked at critically, you get stupid comments – and at some point, you just don’t feel like playing anymore.
“But she plays really great darts. That shows where we still stand in Germany.”
Hempel believes everyone in the sport — from players to fans — has a responsibility to help shift attitudes.
He continued: “We should just think a little more tolerantly and realise that some flippant remarks have more impact than we think.
“It’s often not meant in a bad way, but it can do real damage.
“We need to raise awareness, be open-minded, and show women the same respect as men. Only then can women’s darts truly grow in Germany.”
Hempel pointed to the UK as an example of how things should be done.
He admitted: “People are simply further ahead in England.
“There is just more respect there. The ladies are perceived differently – they’re much, much further ahead in this sport than we are in Germany.”
Commentator Elmar Paulke agreed, warning that the next generation of players could be lost if the problem continues.
She said: “Players like Fallon Sherrock are tough enough to handle it. But it’s about the young talent coming through.
“If young girls get that kind of abuse, they won’t take it so easily – and that’s exactly who we want to encourage.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
