Greaves wins Women's World Matchplay in thrilling final-leg decider

Beau Greaves secured her third Women's World Matchplay title, triumphing over Fallon Sherrock in a dramatic 6-5 victory decided in the final leg. The top seed battled through a tough match at Blackpool's Winter Gardens, ultimately holding her nerve despite letting a 5-3 lead slip.

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I'm not one to celebrate but I just felt the relief after winning. To hit that last dart was just an outpouring of relief. I am just so happy to win.

Sherrock mounted a strong challenge in the deciding leg, hitting a 180 to put pressure on Greaves. However, the 22-year-old responded with a maximum of her own, followed by a 145 setup, and then took out 56 to clinch the win. Greaves expressed immense relief after the match, stating, "To hit that last dart was just an outpouring of relief. I am just so happy to win."

Greaves acknowledged feeling nervous under pressure but viewed it as a privilege. While she felt she didn't play her "A-game," securing the win was paramount. She had a challenging semi-final against Gemma Hayter, which also went to a deciding leg, but Greaves ultimately prevailed with a 104 checkout.

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I was nervous. That kind of pressure is a privilege - I am doing well and playing well. I didn't think I played my A-game, but just to win and get over it is such a massive thing. It is a terrific night.

In contrast, Sherrock had a dominant run to the final, dropping only one leg and defeating defending champion Lisa Ashton 5-1 in the semi-finals. This marks the third consecutive year Sherrock has fallen short in the final. For Greaves, this victory caps off a remarkable year, including her historic wins on the PDC ProTour earlier in the year.

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I knew before that playing women is just a little bit different for me now - I just try and concentrate on the men's game - but when I come back and play at this tournament it is hard and I knew it would be tough. I didn't think I'd ease through it but after last year's disappointment, I am so chuffed to get the win. The relief is so good for my game going forward.