Three Athletes In Contention for Young Sports Star Prize

The three finalists smiling for a photo.
Image caption: Agyemang, Littler and Perrin are finalists for this year's award.

Announced just moments ago

England footballer Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and cricket star Davina Perrin have been selected as contenders for the this year's Young Sports Star of the Year award.

The trio have been recognised for their remarkable achievements over the last year.

Agyemang helped the Lionesses claim victory in Euro 2025, Littler claimed the world title for the first time, and Perrin burst onto the scene with a record-breaking innings.

Littler claimed this honour in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

The shortlisted athletes were unveiled on a widely-listened-to radio show.

The 2025 recipient will be unveiled on the prestigious sports ceremony show on the 18th of December.

The show will be televised from 7 PM GMT.

Agyemang's Profile

Age: 19 Sport: Football

A mere three months after her senior team debut, Agyemang played a crucial and game-changing role in England's run to winning the Euros.

She came off the bench to score crucial late equalisers in both the knockout stage games.

Agyemang's stunning interventions led to her being named the best young player at the Euros.

Later in the year, she was awarded the Golden Girl award for the top young European talent.

She was also shortlisted for the Kopa Trophy for the world's best under-21 female player.

Agyemang, who has been at Brighton in a temporary move from Arsenal, sustained a serious knee injury in October.

"To be named a finalist for this award is incredible," said Agyemang. "I thank God and I'm grateful for the support I've received from my inner circle and supporters."

The Darts Prodigy

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

The year started for Littler in sensational style as - while still 17 - he became the earliest-ever winner in history.

He secured a comprehensive triumph over Michael van Gerwen in the final.

His later win at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth player to complete the prestigious triple crown of major titles.

And he wasn't finished there - his triumph in November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he climbed to world number one for the first time.

At 18, he is the earliest achiever to do so, breaking the previous record.

"To receive a nomination for the honour once more is a big honour," stated Littler. "Last year's win was a proud moment for me and I've had another unbelievable 12 months. I want to continue promoting darts."

The Cricket Sensation

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's most exciting young talents and surged to prominence with an remarkable and historic innings in August.

Her magnificent 42-ball century in The Hundred is the quickest ever by an English female in T20s.

It also stands as the shared third-fastest women's T20 century in a top-tier competition.

Perrin finished second in the run-scoring charts and was named PCA Women's Young Player of the Year.

"I'm incredibly grateful to be shortlisted for the Young Sports Star award," expressed Perrin. "It's a very special feeling. I hope it motivates more young females to get into cricket."

Media caption: Iconic acceptance talks from across SPOTY history.
Ronald West
Ronald West

An international business strategist with over 15 years of experience advising multinational corporations on market expansion and sustainability.