Transgender darts player Noa-Lynn van Leuven faces uncertainty about her reception at next month’s World Darts Championship after securing her spot at Alexandra Palace.
The 28-year-old earned her place in the prestigious tournament following an impressive victory over Beau Greaves last month.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Van Leuven acknowledged the challenges of being in the spotlight, stating: “Being one of the players that is actually in the spotlight and not in a really good way, I think it’s been okay.”
“I’m pretty strong. It’s rough going out on that stage but I do like it. I don’t know what to expect from the crowd,” she added.
Van Leuven, who transitioned in 2021, has faced significant challenges within the sport since her transition.
Notable opposition came from fellow player Deta Hedman, who withdrew from a scheduled match against Van Leuven due to her stance on competing against transgender players.
Noa-Lynn van Leuven has admitted to struggling with the spotlight
Sky Sports
“I get so much support and so many people sending me text messages like: ‘You’re doing so well, keep going, just be you’,” Van Leuven revealed.
Her resilient attitude suggests she’s prepared for whatever reception awaits at Alexandra Palace.
Reigning world champion Luke Humphries has offered strong support for Van Leuven’s right to compete.
Noa-Lynn van Leuven is preparing for a hostile reception from the Ally Pally
Sky Sports
“Of course I have sympathy for her because she’s a human and no-one likes being abused online,” Humphries said. “She gets it a lot but, unfortunately, we all do.”
The world champion emphasised that Van Leuven is competing within the rules of the sport.
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Noa-Lynn van Leuven was booed before she faced Michel van Gerwen earlier this month
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“Every sport has their rules and she qualifies in the rules. So, as much as it might annoy people, she’s not doing anything that’s illegal, she’s not cheating,” he stated.
Humphries advised Van Leuven to avoid social media, describing it as “not a nice place at all.”
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