Three Shortlisted for Young Sports Star Honour

The shortlisted trio smiling for a photo.
Image caption: The shortlisted athletes are in the running for this year's award.

Announced just moments ago

England footballer Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and batswoman Davina Perrin have been selected as contenders for the upcoming Young Athlete of the Year award.

These three athletes have been celebrated for their exceptional achievements over the past 12 months.

Agyemang played a key role in helping the Lionesses secure Euro 2025, Littler claimed the world title for the maiden time, and Perrin rose to fame with a record-breaking innings.

Littler won the award in 2024 after his breakthrough year.

The finalists were revealed during a live broadcast on a widely-listened-to radio show.

The champion will be unveiled on the Sports Personality of the Year show on Thursday, 18 December.

The event will be aired from 19:00 GMT.

Michelle Agyemang

Age: 19 Sport: Football

A mere three months after her senior team debut, Agyemang played a pivotal and thrilling role in England's run to Euro 2025 glory.

She was introduced as a substitute to score crucial late equalisers in both the knockout stage games.

Her incredible contributions led to her being named Young Player of the Tournament.

Subsequently, she was awarded the prestigious Golden Girl honour for the best young player in Europe.

She was also shortlisted for the Kopa Trophy for the global standout among U21 women.

Agyemang, who has been at Brighton in a temporary move from Arsenal, ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in October.

"Being on the shortlist for this honour is a privilege," said Agyemang. "I thank God and I'm grateful for the support I've received from my family, coaches, team-mates and fans."

Littler's Profile

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

Littler kicked off the year in sensational style as - while still 17 - he became the youngest darts world champion in history.

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

His follow-up triumph at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth player to complete the prestigious triple crown of major titles.

He didn't stop there - his triumph in November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he reached world number one for the very first time.

At 18, he is the most youthful player to do so, breaking the previous record.

"To receive a nomination for this award again is a big honour," stated Littler. "My victory in 2024 was a special memory for me and I've had another unbelievable 12 months. I want to continue raising the profile of darts."

The Cricket Sensation

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's most exciting young talents and rose to fame with an extraordinary and record-breaking innings in August.

Her sublime 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 premier tournament.

Perrin came in second place in the batting rankings and was named the young player of the year by the PCA.

"I'm truly honoured to be named a finalist for the Young Sports Personality of the Year award," expressed Perrin. "It's a very special feeling. I hope it inspires more girls to get into cricket."

Video description: Memorable speeches from across SPOTY history.
Ronald Henderson
Ronald Henderson

A neuroscientist and tech enthusiast passionate about bridging the gap between brain research and AI applications.