Beau Greaves made darts history by becoming the first woman to win a PDC ranking title, defeating Michael Smith 8-7 in a dramatic final-leg showdown at Players Championship 11 in Milton Keynes.
Historic victory sealed with 142 checkout
The 22-year-old sealed the title with a nerveless 142 finish in the deciding leg, completing a stunning comeback after Smith had fought back from 6-3 down to force a decider. Earlier in the match, Greaves had landed a 170 checkout – known as The Big Fish – to take a commanding lead.
Her achievement marks a watershed moment in professional darts, breaking new ground for female players on the PDC circuit.
Path to the final: Beating legends of the game
Greaves’ journey to the title was even more remarkable given the calibre of opponents she overcame. In the quarter-finals, she edged past 2018 world champion Rob Cross 6-5. She then delivered a dominant 7-1 demolition of two-time world champion Gary Anderson in the semi-finals.
Anderson had earlier produced a nine-darter in his last-16 win over Alexander Merkx, but was left stunned by Greaves’ clinical performance.
"Unbelievable" moment for Greaves
"I never thought I'd win one of these. Never, ever," said an emotional Beau Greaves after her victory. "I'm so happy. I can't even describe the way I feel. It's unbelievable and I feel so proud of myself."
"I beat Gary Anderson – I couldn't believe it! I don't know what's happening. I'm beating players that I've watched growing up, it's just amazing."
She added: "Aside from winning Lakeside, this is my best ever achievement, and hopefully I can kick on now and do well on the television. I'm absolutely chuffed!"
What's next for Greaves?
With this landmark win, Greaves has staked her claim among the elite of the sport. The focus now turns to how she can build on this success in upcoming televised events.