'Why would I let anyone else ruin my passion? If I did that, the haters would win': Noa-Lynn van Leuven never considered quitting amid negativity

Back at the Winter Gardens, Noa-Lynn van Leuven cuts a different figure from the one we saw a year ago. Still passionate, still talented — but now calmer, more grounded, and quietly determined to show what she’s capable of at the Women’s World Matchplay as she reflected to the media including DartsNews.

“It feels amazing to be back,” she says with a smile. “It’s such an iconic place to play at.” Last year, the buzz around her was deafening. Many tipped her as a potential champion. But the pressure weighed heavy, and despite flashes of brilliance — particularly in her battle with Mikuru Suzuki — the results didn’t materialize. She hopes that this time it will be different.

“Last Year, It Was Loud — This Year, It’s Quiet. And That’s Nice.”

After a whirlwind debut in Blackpool, Noa has taken a more low-key route in 2024. Less media, less noise, more balance as the Dutchwoman wrangled initially with both the spotlight but also abuse after becoming the first transwoman to play at Ally Pally. “There was a lot of negativity last year. This year, it’s been quiet — and that’s actually quite nice,” she admits. “I’m flying under the radar a bit more, and I like it.”
But despite that quieter nature off the oche, she knows the format demands immediate sharpness. “It’s short. You miss two legs and you could be done. You have to start with your A-game. There’s no room to warm up.”

A Tough Year, a Needed Reset

The last 12 months have been far from smooth. Noa took a break from the sport to recalibrate — mentally, emotionally, physically. “I’ve had a couple of rough weeks, but I feel good again now. I’m ready to get back on stage and play darts.”
But asked if she ever considered walking away, her answer is firm. “No. I love this game too much. Why would I let anyone else ruin my passion? If I did that, the haters would win — and I won’t let that happen.”

Support from the Elite — and a Dutch Flag to Fly

In difficult moments, support came from unexpected but welcome places — including Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries. “Before the Grand Slam, seeing messages of support from them in the newspapers really helped. It means a lot when big names back you.”
With most of the Dutch contingent now out of the tournament, she’s flying the flag solo — but that doesn’t bother her. “I’m just here to play my game. I want to win a few matches — if I can win three, that’d be great.”