Trio Shortlisted for Young Sports Star Prize

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

Announced recently

English soccer star Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and batswoman Davina Perrin have been shortlisted for the this year's Young Athlete of the Year award.

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

Agyemang was instrumental as the Lionesses claim victory in Euro 2025, Littler won the world title for the very first time, and Perrin surged to prominence with a unprecedented innings.

Littler was the recipient in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

The three contenders were revealed during a live broadcast on a national radio breakfast show.

This year's winner will be revealed live on the Sports Personality of the Year show on December 18th.

The event will be televised from 19:00 GMT.

The Football Star

Age: 19 Sport: Football

Just three months after her international debut, Agyemang played a pivotal and thrilling role in England's run to Euro 2025 glory.

She entered the fray to score vital last-gasp goals 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 prestigious Golden Girl honour for the finest emerging star on the continent.

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

Agyemang, who has been playing for Brighton on loan from Arsenal, sustained a serious knee injury in October.

"Being nominated for this award is a privilege," said Agyemang. "I thank God and I'm appreciative of the support I've received from my loved ones, mentors, colleagues and supporters."

Littler's Profile

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

The year started for Littler in spectacular fashion 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 competitor to complete the prestigious three major tournament wins.

And he wasn't finished there - his victory at November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he reached world number one for the first time.

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

"Earning a spot on the shortlist for this award again is a big honour," stated Littler. "Winning last year 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 top prospects and surged to prominence 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 deeply humbled to be named a finalist for the Young Sports Star award," expressed Perrin. "It means a great deal. I hope it encourages more girls to get into cricket."

Media caption: Historic winner's addresses from across SPOTY history.
Michael Taylor
Michael Taylor

A technology strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and business transformation across European markets.