Noa-Lynn van Leuven Says ‘Respect Each Other’ Ahead of Darts Debut

Noa-Lynn van Leuven, a pastry chef turned darts sensation, is ready to take center stage at the Paddy Power PDC World Championship. Despite facing relentless bullying, death threats, and rejection from opponents and teammates, Van Leuven remains determined to be remembered for her talent, not her transgender backstory.

The 28-year-old Dutch player, nicknamed “The Duchess,” earned her spot at Alexandra Palace with a top-two finish in the Women’s Series. She faces compatriot Kevin Doets in the first round on Tuesday, with the winner set to take on former world champion Michael “Bully Boy” Smith, reported by the Express.

Van Leuven admits to uncertainty about the reception she will receive from the famously rowdy Alexandra Palace crowd. Yet, she remains defiant, telling her critics: “It doesn’t matter who you are or what you are – just respect each other.”

Respect hasn’t always been extended to Van Leuven. Earlier this year, two-time WDF World Masters champion Deta Hedman boycotted a Denmark Open match against her, refusing to play against transgender women. Additionally, Dutch players Anca Zijlstra and Aileen de Graaf quit the Netherlands women’s team in protest.

Despite the hate and adversity, Van Leuven remains committed to the sport she loves. “I just love this game, so I will keep playing it,” she said. However, the abuse has taken its toll: “I have had panic attacks, and my depression got worse – that’s all because of social media, and that is so wrong.”

Reflecting on her journey, Van Leuven shared how bullying started early, when she began her transition at 16. “It is still a burden. People are like, ‘I’m fine with bullying someone as long as I am not the one getting bullied.’”

Even in the face of threats, Van Leuven remains resolute: “I guess it just motivates me more, whenever people are being terrible to me.”

Support has come from some of darts’ biggest stars, including men’s world champions Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen. MVG appeared in a video last month declaring, “Bullying is not cool,” while Humphries defended Van Leuven, saying she “has done nothing wrong.”

Van Leuven appreciates their influential backing: “I really appreciate the fact that they are taking the time to answer those questions.”

As for her role in paving the way for others, Van Leuven humbly acknowledges her impact: “I needed those people when I was still doubting myself… It’s important to just be yourself.”

With her talent, determination, and resilience, Noa-Lynn van Leuven heads to Alexandra Palace not just to make a statement, but to inspire.