Fallon Sherrock’s rise to stardom was nothing short of extraordinary — but with greatness often comes controversy. While many hail her as a trailblazer in professional darts, others argue her path to fame has been paved with media hype, special invites, and decisions that have sparked fierce debate across the sport.
After making history at the 2019 PDC World Darts Championship—becoming the first woman to defeat a man in the tournament—Sherrock was launched into the spotlight. Her wins over Ted Evetts and Mensur Suljović were undeniably impressive, but what followed became a point of contention. Invitations to major events such as the Premier League Darts and the World Series, often without the need to qualify through traditional means, drew criticism from some players and fans alike.
Darts purists questioned whether Sherrock was being handed opportunities that others had to earn through gruelling ranking systems. Her inclusion in elite competitions — despite not holding a PDC Tour Card — was seen by critics as a marketing move, exploiting her popularity rather than merit. To them, it represented a bending of the rules and raised concerns about fairness in professional competition.
The controversy deepened in 2022 when she became the first woman to hit a televised nine-dart finish — but it was in the less prestigious MODUS Super Series, not a PDC-sanctioned event. Though an incredible feat, its significance was debated, with some suggesting it received disproportionate attention compared to other players’ achievements.
Then came the backlash when she was initially not offered a spot at the 2023 World Darts Championship. After public outcry and internal discussions, she was eventually granted a place — again sparking accusations of preferential treatment. While fans defended the decision as correcting an oversight, others saw it as bowing to pressure.
Despite the noise, Sherrock has remained composed. She acknowledges the controversies but refuses to let them define her. “I just want to play darts,” she’s often said — and play she does, with undeniable passion and skill.
Love her or loathe the way she’s risen, Fallon Sherrock has forced the darts world to confront its traditions — and whether by inspiration or provocation, she’s left an indelible mark.
