Women with the will to win
The evolution of women’s darts is no longer a footnote in the sport’s history - it's become the headline. From increased qualification in mainstream tournaments to the Women’s Series, women are not only participating, they're dominating. Whether you're following your favourite player or a major tournament, the story that always grips us most is the one where the underdog triumphs.
That’s what makes the Worthington’s Champion of Champions so unique - it’s a platform where grassroots players have a real shot at the spotlight. It truly embodies the spirit of "from the pub to the podium."
As the leading grassroots tournament, Worthington’s Champion of Champions attracts huge interest from players eager to qualify. With only 256 qualifying events held across the UK and matches played in a ruthless best-of-three format - the road to the finals is anything but easy.
Only a few women have ever qualified for the Champion of Champions final in its ten-year history - Rhian O’Sullivan, Deta Hedman, and Eve Watson among them. In 2024, Eve stood as the only female player, entering the tournament with optimism and determination.
Reflecting on her unique position in the tournament, Eve admitted,
“To be honest, I was probably thinking, should I pull out? But I thought—why not? I’ll give it a go. I’m only going to improve my game by playing against the best.”
With qualifiers held across the UK, this year saw a remarkable surge in female participation - particularly during the latest round of qualifiers. Amid these rising numbers, one story resonates far beyond the oche. Laura and Tennille Thomas, inspired by their late father Russell Thomas, have taken on multiple qualifiers across South Wales to honour his legacy. Russell was a highly valued gentleman - a pillar to the local darts scene and throughout the darting community. A truly friendly face in all tournaments and one of the founding organisers of the Champion of Champions at the Hi-Tide in Porthcawl alongside his close friend Dean Williams (PDC scoring official and players’ marshal). Russell helped mould Champions of Champions into the tournament we know today and was a much-loved figure at so many events.
Though he was heartbreakingly absent from the 2024 tournament due to ill health, his spirit remained deeply woven into the event and other local tournaments, especially Bedlinog Rugby Club and The Navi in Treharris, which always held a special place in his heart. As his daughters continue their journey, they do so not just in pursuit of qualification—but in memory of a man whose impact on the game, and on the people in it, continues to be felt with every throw.
Alongside their darts endeavours, Laura and Tennille have also embraced major fundraising challenges for Velindre Cancer. In 2024, Laura completed both the Cardiff Half Marathon and the Castle to Castle run, and this year she and Tennille are taking on both events together. Looking ahead, Laura will also be tackling the Sierra Nevada Trek in 2026, all in support of this vital cause. Donations to support their efforts can be made via their JustGiving page
Champions of Champions 2025 final is already making history as two women - Rachel Kingdon and Leanne Topper enter the Champion of Champions field for the first time. Rather than taking the traditional qualifier route, both earned their place through standout performances in Welsh individual and singles tournaments. Now, they’re setting their sights on making even more history - as the first woman to lift the Champions of Champions trophy.
To follow their journey as they head to the finals on August 23rd at Depot, Cardiff, be sure to follow the official community page for all things Champion of Champions for all the latest Champions of Champions news, photos, and special appearances from a few darts greats.
