"While Beau Greaves is in that tournament with all of us, we're playing for second place" - Deta Hedman realistic over World Matchplay chances

Deta Hedman will soon make her debut in the women's World Matchplay, among eight of the best women darters in the world who will challenge for glory at the Winter Gardens. When questioned on her chances at glory, she seemed to be adamant that Beau Greaves was the one to beat with second place the best anyone else could hope for.

'Beau 'n' Arrow' has been the dominant force on the Women's Series these past couple of years, winning titles for fun while being a step clear of the chasing pack.

She is not the reigning champion in this event, losing out to eventual winner Lisa Ashton at the semi-final stage. The 22-year-old will want to make things right this time around in Blackpool and is the overwhelming favourite for Matchplay glory.

Hedman has regularly lauded Greaves before, admitting that any chance of lifting the trophy on Sunday afternoon is slim. "I've said it before and I'll say it again: while Beau Greaves is in that tournament with all of us, we're playing for second place," she said.

"Don't get me wrong, on our day we can beat anyone. But I know where my game is. I know I can produce some really good games, I can produce some great legs, and I can also produce some total shockers. With the form Beau is in right now, you'd have to play out of your skin to beat her."

Hedman won the 2025 WDF women's World Championship. It was the first since 2021 that Greaves did not clinch it, solely due to her not competing in it as she opted for the PDC World Darts Championship instead. "I was actually grateful when she said she wasn't going to play at Lakeside because, in all honesty, I'm not saying I'm no good or anything, but if she had been in that field, I don't think I would have won it. I would have given it a good go, but she's just totally awesome. Absolutely awesome."

Focus quickly shifted back towards the World Matchplay. While the 66-year-old is on the other side of the draw from Greaves, reaching the final will be tricky. Fallon Sherrock is her first test in the quarter-final with either Ashton or Rhian O'Sullivan the next test.

"As for the Matchplay, luckily she's in the other half of the draw, so I'm just taking it one game at a time, trying to win each match and go as far as I possibly can," she commented. "If I lose in the first round, it doesn't matter. I'll still have played in the Women's World Matchplay, and that's another box ticked."