VAN LEUVEN ‘RETIRED’ BY TRANS RULING
09/04/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
NOA-LYNN VAN LEUVEN was close to tears as she revealed she has been “retired” by new rules against transgender players.
The decision follows a controversial rule change by the Darts Regulation Authority, which has ruled that transgender women will no longer be permitted to compete in women’s events.
The issue has also been thrust into the spotlight following recent decisions by the International Olympic Committee, with athletes across multiple disciplines affected.
Van Leuven says she was left stunned after receiving confirmation she can no longer compete.
She said on Instagram: “I just got an email. Apparently, I just got retired, not by choice, but because I am no longer allowed to compete.
“The DRA has just decided that trans women are no longer allowed in women’s events, which basically means I am out.
“I have worked so damn hard for years just to get here. I showed up and I competed. I respected the sport every game and every single day.
“Now, with just one decision, I am being told I no longer belong. This isn’t just about me, it is another huge hit for the trans community.
“Especially after the recent decisions made by the IOC. Every day it is getting harder for trans people just to exist, to compete.
“If you think this stops with me, it doesn’t. We just want to be.”
Therefore, Van Leuven can no longer play on the PDC Women’s Series, where she has claimed six titles.
The Duchess made history as the first Dutch transgender woman to play at the Worlds in 2024.
Van Leuven also featured at Ally Pally last December but was knocked out in the first round after losing 3-0 to Peter Wright.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
