Three Athletes Shortlisted for Young Sports Personality Award

Three young athletes smiling for a photo.
Caption: Agyemang, Littler and Perrin are in the running for this year's award.

Announced just moments ago

England footballer Michelle Agyemang, darts sensation Luke Littler and cricket star Davina Perrin have been selected as contenders for the 2025 Young Athlete of the Year award.

The three finalists have been recognised for their remarkable achievements over the past 12 months.

Agyemang was instrumental as the Lionesses claim victory in Euro 2025, Littler secured the world title for the maiden time, and Perrin surged to prominence with a historic innings.

Littler was the recipient in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

The three contenders were announced live on a national radio breakfast show.

The champion will be announced during a live broadcast on the Sports Personality of the Year show on December 18th.

The show will be televised from 7 PM GMT.

Agyemang's Profile

Age: 19 Sport: Football

Only 90 days after her senior team debut, Agyemang played a dramatic and decisive role in England's run to winning the Euros.

She entered the fray to score key tying goals in both the knockout stage games.

These match-saving moments led to her being named the best young player at the Euros.

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.

"To be named a finalist for Young Sports Personality of the Year is an honour," said Agyemang. "I thank God and I'm appreciative of the support I've received from my inner circle and supporters."

Littler's Profile

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

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

He secured a dominant victory over Michael van Gerwen in the final.

His subsequent victory at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth individual to complete the prestigious triple crown of major titles.

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

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

"Earning a spot on the shortlist for Young Sports Personality of the Year is a massive accolade," stated Littler. "My victory in 2024 was a special memory for me and I've had another incredible 12 months. I want to continue elevating darts."

The Cricket Sensation

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's brightest emerging stars and rose to fame with an remarkable and historic innings in August.

Her sublime 42-ball century in The Hundred is the speediest century from an England batswoman in T20s.

It also stands as the joint third-fastest women's T20 century in a premier tournament.

Perrin finished second in the season's run tally and was named PCA Women's Young Player of the Year.

"I'm truly honoured to be nominated for the Young Sports Star award," expressed Perrin. "This is phenomenal. I hope it inspires more young females to get into cricket."

Media caption: Iconic acceptance talks from across the awards' past.
Dr. George Cochran
Dr. George Cochran

A tech journalist and AI researcher with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.