Contrary to some accusations made against England Darts, as a member of the WDF have always embraced and complied in full the rules and regulations set by the executive of the World Darts Federation.
It is incumbent upon us to include in full a statement of the future of Womens Darts as set by the W.D.F in the statement below. We will adhere to the content in its entirety on our online entry system for all England Darts events.
Tommy Thompson
Chairman England Darts
WDF Eligibility Criteria Announcement
As an international federation for the sport of darts, the WDF’s role is to facilitate equal opportunity and an inclusive environment for all people to participate nationally and internationally in the sport of darts, as athletes, coaches, officials, staff and other volunteers.
Our existing Transgender Athlete policy was based on this principle.
Transgender participation in darts is a complex, evolving subject, and our position has always been that if there was a material change in scientific studies, law, or the wishes of a majority of the WDF's Member Countries that we would review the policy and make changes where necessary.
At the WDF General Meeting in September 2024, a remit was put forward calling for entry and participation in WDF Women’s and Girls tournaments to be restricted to female by birth only. This remit was voted through by the majority of Member Countries.
Since that vote, the WDF has been in consultation with legal representatives in California to understand how and if it could deliver on the vote in a way that ensures the sport remains accessible to all and ensures that transgender participants can enjoy playing darts without fear of discrimination, prejudice, harassment, or any form of discrimination.
Following those discussions, the WDF can confirm changes to our eligibility rules for WDF Ranking Tournaments and Cups.
Effective Monday 28 July 2025, entry and participation in WDF Women’s and Girls Ranking Tournaments and Cups will only be open to players that are WOMEN/FEMALE as defined under this Policy.
Accordingly, WDF Tournaments, Cups and Ranking Tables will be renamed and redefined as “Open”, “Women”, “Open Youth” and “Girls” tournaments and cups.
Full details on our eligibility criteria changes are set out in our revised Transgender Policy which can be found on the Rules Page of the WDF website.