Kevin Doets Defeats Noa-Lynn van Leuven in Darts

Kevin Doets defeated Noa-Lynn van Leuven 3-1 in the first round of the 2025 PDC World Championship, marking a significant moment as van Leuven was the tournament's first transgender competitor. Van Leuven initially took the first set with impressive checkouts, including a 120 finish, but missed crucial opportunities in subsequent sets, allowing Doets to take control. A pivotal moment came when Doets won a leg after a chaotic 33-dart finish, leveling the match and shifting momentum in his favor. Despite van Leuven's six 180s, Doets managed to secure victory with an average of 88.13. He will now face 2023 champion Michael Smith in the next round, seeking revenge after losing to him last year. The match highlighted both players' talents, though van Leuven's inconsistency ultimately cost her advancement.