"Fallon Sherrock is an icon - she's still playing at an exceptional standard": Laura Turner says women’s darts is stronger than ever beyond Beau Greaves

Laura Turner believes women’s darts has never been in a stronger place — with Fallon Sherrock still setting the standard and a new generation, led by Beau Greaves, proving the talent pool runs far deeper than ever before.

The experienced player and analyst says Sherrock’s decision to take a step back in 2026, for health reasons, highlights both the demands of the sport and the human cost of constant competition.

“Fallon’s an icon of the women’s game. She’s been playing at the top level for such a long time, and if she feels this is the right moment to step away, then absolutely,” Turner said to Sky Sports. “She’s still performing at an exceptional standard. It’s about managing darts and life — because darts can just take over.”

Sherrock, who has long battled a kidney condition affecting her energy levels, remains one of the sport’s most influential figures. Turner’s backing underscores how vital her presence has been to the growth of women’s darts — both on stage and off it.

Turner is confident the women’s game is on the right trajectory, pointing to record participation and growing investment as proof of genuine progress. “Year after year we’re seeing more tournaments, higher prize money, and bigger opportunities on the big stages. The Women’s Series is clearly growing. There are already more than 100 entrants at most events. If that rises towards a consistent 128, maybe there could even be room for a separate women’s world championship under the PDC banner.”

That expansion, she says, is creating real depth in the field — with more players capable of winning titles and competing against the sport’s elite. “We’re seeing real development now — more depth in the field and stronger averages. It might not yet be the right time for a completely separate World Championship, but things are heading in the right direction.”

Greaves leading the next wave

One player proving that point beyond doubt is Beau Greaves. The 21-year-old from Doncaster has turned dominance into routine, stretching her PDC Women’s Series winning streak to 86 matches and collecting 13 consecutive titles along the way.

Her success on the Development Tour, where she finished second on the Order of Merit to earn a PDC Tour Card for 2026 and 2027, now gives her a platform to test herself against the world’s top 128 professionals.

She also made history by becoming the first woman to reach the PDC World Youth Championship final, having beaten reigning world champion Luke Littler in a deciding leg. She’ll face defending champion Gian van Veen in Minehead next month.

Turner, who lost 4–0 to Greaves during a recent Women’s Series, admits she could only admire the standard she faced. “I felt more like a spectator than an opponent. What she’s doing in the sport at the moment is absolutely phenomenal. I’m excited to see what next year brings because we’re going to see her on the Pro Tour among those big 128. That’s really exciting.”

According to Turner, Greaves has always been destined for the top — but crucially, on her own terms. “We all believed she was ready ages ago, but Beau does everything on her own terms, in her own time. And it’s clearly worked. She knows exactly where her game and her mindset are, and she’ll make the next move when she’s ready.”

Wayne Mardle has called Greaves’ technique the best in the game, and Turner wholeheartedly agrees. “Her action is beautiful. If you want to learn how to throw properly, watch Beau. It’s silky smooth — no wasted movement. She’s got a lovely rhythm, and she just doesn’t miss. You’ve got to be sharp from the very first dart.”

The transformation has been startling, even for those who’ve shared the stage with her. “A few years ago she wasn’t averaging 80 or 90. Now she’s regularly around 90 to 100. If you’re not at your absolute best, you’ve got no chance. I’d need the game of my life to beat her now.”

Greaves will join Sherrock, Noa-Lynn van Leuven, Gemma Hayter and Lisa Ashton at this December’s PDC World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace — a milestone that reflects just how competitive the women’s game has become.

For Turner, the progress is undeniable. Sherrock remains the sport’s most recognisable figure; Greaves is its unstoppable force. But it’s the strength in depth beneath them that truly excites her.

“Every year it’s getting better — the averages are climbing, the fields are stronger, and the rewards are improving. It’s great to see the development, and now we’re seeing real competition right through the ranks.”

Women’s darts, once fighting for relevance, is now a serious part of the PDC landscape. And as Turner reminds everyone, the sport’s evolution isn’t just about who wins next — it’s about balance, belief, and longevity.