Gemma Hayter has confirmed she will give up her place at the WDF Women's World Championship at the Lakeside to return to Alexandra Palace for the PDC World Darts Championship, a decision forced by PDC rules that bar players from competing in both events.
The 33-year-old from Portsmouth made her Ally Pally debut last year, taking a set off Josh Rock in a 3-1 defeat. She secured her return to the north London venue through the PDC Women's Series and had also qualified for the WDF event, where she would have been among the favourites for the title.
Hayter explains her choice
Announcing the decision on social media, Hayter said: "Qualifying for one World Championship is a huge achievement so to qualify for two is amazing. I wanted the choice at the beginning of the year and I've found myself in that position."
She added: "I've absolutely loved playing on the WDF circuit this year. I've played in some great tournaments, met some lovely people and really enjoyed the whole experience. Winning the WDF World Masters in Las Vegas is definitely a career highlight."
Fans react to the announcement
Hayter continued: "However, after giving it a lot of thought, and as difficult as the decision has been, I've decided to give up my place at the WDF Women's World Championship and take the opportunity to play at Ally Pally. To be women's world champion is definitely on my bucket list but the opportunity to play at Ally Pally again is something I can't turn down. Thank you all for the messages and support!"
Fans were quick to congratulate Hayter, while some argued she should be free to play in both World Championships. One said: "Still think you should not have to make this choice in the first place, but understandable decision!" Another added: "At the end of the day IMO you shouldn't have to make that choice but good luck at Ally Pally."
Who joins Hayter at Ally Pally
Hayter will be joined at Ally Pally by Beau Greaves, who booked her place by winning the Women's World Matchplay. The other qualifiers via the Women's Series are Lisa Ashton, Fallon Sherrock and Vicky Pruim. Fallon remains the only woman to have defeated a man on the Ally Pally stage during her run to the third round at the 2019/20 tournament.
