Hedman’s decision to forfeit the match has sparked a fiery debate across the sport.
Brushing aside rumours of an illness as her reason for the exit, Hedman made her stance crystal clear on X: “No fake illness I said I wouldn’t play a man in a ladies event”.
Hedman also turned down any compensation she might have lost by dropping out, stating, “This subject causing much angst in the sport I love. People can be whoever they want in life but I don’t think biological born men should compete in Women’s sport.”
Van Leuven eventually advanced to the semifinals only to be defeated by Beau Graves.
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), under the leadership of CEO Matt Porter, confirmed van Leuven adhered to all regulatory guidelines set by the Darts Regulation Authority and the International Olympic Committee. These include maintaining a testosterone level below 10 nanomoles per litre for over a year and not altering gender identity for at least four years, ensuring no “presumption of advantage.”
