The Grand Slam of Darts kicked off with a series of surprises, as reigning champion Luke Humphries suffered a shock defeat to Rowby-John Rodriguez. Meanwhile, Luke Littler made a strong statement with a dominant victory over Keane Barry on his debut, while Michael van Gerwen enjoyed a comfortable win. The tournament also saw Noa-Lynn van Leuven make history as the first transgender player to compete in a televised PDC tournament against men.
World No. 1 Luke Humphries has voiced his support for transgender darts player Noa-Lynn van Leuven, who is set to make history at the Grand Slam of Darts this weekend. Van Leuven will become the first trans player to compete in a televised PDC tournament against men, facing three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen on Saturday. Humphries emphasizes that Van Leuven has adhered to all regulations and deserves to compete, while acknowledging the online abuse she has faced.
Noa-Lynn van Leuven is set to make history as the first transgender player to compete in a televised PDC tournament against men, sparking debate and a defense of the PDC’s transgender policy by CEO Matt Porter. The policy, which has been criticized by some, has been in place for several years, and the PDC maintains it is fair and inclusive.
