Gender-critical protesters ejected from venue after targeting trans darts player Noa-Lynn van Leuven

A group of gender-critical protesters were forcibly removed from the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Sunday after disrupting the Women’s World Matchplay darts tournament in protest against Dutch trans player Noa-Lynn van Leuven.

Van Leuven, who made history in 2023 as the first openly trans woman to qualify for the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Championship, was returning to the iconic venue for her third appearance. The 28-year-old secured a commanding 4–0 victory over Lorraine Winstanley in her opening match before narrowly losing to Fallon Sherrock in the semi-finals.

I love this game too much - why would I let anyone else ruin my passion for darts?

However, her performance was overshadowed by a disruptive incident involving four individuals wearing “Save Women’s Sport” slogans. According to eyewitnesses and footage shared online, the protesters attempted to throw objects and display anti-trans messages as Van Leuven made her walk-on. Security staff swiftly intervened, physically removing the group from the venue amid loud jeers from the crowd.

Connor Cain, a reporter for the YouTube channel Darts Now, confirmed that at least one protester was filming the confrontation, while another attempted to approach the stage. The group later posted on social media, claiming they were “peacefully protesting” and accusing organisers of using “extreme violence” in their removal.

Van Leuven, who has previously spoken openly about the mental health challenges she has faced due to online abuse and public scrutiny, responded with resilience. “I love this game too much - why would I let anyone else ruin my passion for darts?” she said in a post-match interview. “It feels amazing to be back. I just want to play darts”.

The PDC has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident, but the swift action by security was widely praised by fans and fellow players alike.

Van Leuven’s presence in the sport continues to spark debate among some campaigners, but her growing list of achievements and calm demeanour under pressure have earned her widespread respect within the darts community.