Darts star explains the exact advantages that trans players have over women

One female darts star has opened up about the 'advantages' trans players have over women competitors. It comes after the World Darts Federation banned trans players, including Noa-Lynn van Leuven, from competing in their women-only competitions.

It's sparked a big debate in the world of darts, with Van Leuven's compatriot, Michael van Gerwen, defending the player's participation. From the outside, fans have also questioned what advantages trans players have over women arrowsmiths, given that there don't appear to be any physical barriers related to success in the sport.

However, Aileen de Graaf, who is also from the Netherlands, believes trans players do benefit, explaining her reasoning to AD.nl. She said: "I understand it's not easy for the federation to put such a rule in writing.

"Not many sports have managed to do it yet. But it's good that it's happened, because if we all think logically, there is a difference between men's and women's sport. The difference in averages is often at least 15 points. Hand-eye coordination, focus, and the natural physical build work in men's favour."

De Graaf also pointed to the fact that women have biological disadvantages compared to trans players. She added: "I get my period once a month, and when I do, my level drops a lot. Trans women can't experience that. There are clear differences. For me, it's about fairness in girls' darts. There's a reason sport separates men and women."

The 35-year-old believes speaking out about this issue could cause problems for her in the long term, saying: "If you stand up for women's rights, you're quickly labelled 'transphobic' and can lose sponsors. I've had threats, and that's why I stayed quiet for a while. Many players still don't speak up for the same reason."

Adding: "When I played for the Dutch national team, Noa competed in the boys' category. When she switched to the women's, we felt it was unfair. Don't get me wrong - everyone should live freely and happily. Noa did nothing wrong; she followed the rules. It's just unfortunate she's the only top-level example, so it always comes back to her. We're fighting for our rights too. Fairness has to come first."

Van Leuven is still eligible to play in cross-gender WDF events and so far the PDC haven't issued a ban on trans players. The 28-year-old recently featured in the Women's World Matchplay, where she reached the semi-final of the competition.