"We have a huge problem in Germany" - Florian Hempel unearths women's darts crisis in Germany

Florian Hempel has spoken out clearly about the situation of women's darts in Germany - and has clear words. In the Game On podcast, which he co-hosts with commentary legend Elmar Paulke, the two spoke about Beau Greaves and her recent success in winning a tour card. In the process, Hempel identified what is still missing in Germany to perhaps one day produce a player at the level of Beau Greaves herself.

Hempel believes there’s still a long way to go when it comes to supporting female players in darts. Speaking after taking part in a workshop in Franconia, Hempel said he saw first-hand just how difficult it remains for talented women to establish themselves in a male-dominated environment.

“In order for us to see even more talent and for them to have the courage to really take this step, we need to rethink the entire environment,” Hempel said. “We still have a huge problem with women in darts.”

He recalled the example of a young female player who impressed during the workshop but admitted she often feels uncomfortable playing in male settings. “She told me that it’s not easy to play among men. You’re looked at critically, you get stupid comments – and at some point, you just don’t feel like playing anymore. But she plays really great darts,” Hempel explained. “That shows where we still stand in Germany.”

Although the player prefers competing alongside men, Hempel added that she would do it more often “if it weren’t for the comments and the flirting.”

The Cologne-based pro believes the responsibility for change lies across the entire darts community – from players and clubs to fans. “We should just think a little more tolerantly and realise that some flippant remarks have more impact than we think. It’s often not meant in a bad way, but it can do real damage,” he said.

Hempel pointed to the United Kingdom as a positive example, where women’s sport is far more developed and respected. “There is simply more respect there. The ladies are perceived differently – they’re much, much further ahead in this sport than we are in Germany,” he said.

Commentator Elmar Paulke, speaking alongside Hempel on a podcast, agreed and highlighted the difference in how young players are treated. “Professional players like Fallon Sherrock are, of course, tough enough to handle it. But it’s about the young talent coming through. If young girls get that kind of abuse, they won’t take it so easily – and that’s exactly who we want to encourage,” Paulke said.

Hempel reiterated that cultural attitudes in the UK make a big difference. “There is simply more respect there. The ladies are perceived differently – they’re much further ahead in this sport than we are in Germany,” he repeated.

With a wry smile but a serious message, Hempel added: “When Hans-Jürgen comes around the corner with his 41 average and the stupidest line of the evening on his lips – then we’re not going to get anywhere. That kind of behaviour hurts and drives people away. And that’s a shame, because we could have some great players.”

Finally, Hempel made a clear appeal to everyone involved in the sport: “We need to raise awareness, be open-minded, and show women the same respect as men. Only then can women’s darts truly grow in Germany.”