Three Named as Finalists for Young Athlete of the Year Prize

Three young athletes smiling for a photo.
Photo description: The three contenders are finalists for this year's award.

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

The three finalists have been celebrated for their outstanding 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 first time, and Perrin rose to fame with a record-breaking innings.

Littler was the recipient in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

The three contenders were unveiled on a national radio breakfast show.

The champion will be revealed live 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

Just three months after her first cap for her country, Agyemang played a crucial and game-changing role in England's run to Euro 2025 glory.

She was introduced as a substitute to score vital last-gasp goals in both the last eight and last four matches.

Her incredible contributions 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 planet's top young female footballer.

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

Luke Littler

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

Littler kicked off the year in incredible form 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 later win at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth individual to complete the prestigious PDC Triple Crown.

His success continued - his victory at November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he reached world number one for the first time.

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

"Earning a spot on the shortlist for the honour once more is a huge privilege," stated Littler. "My victory in 2024 was a highlight for me and I've had another incredible 12 months. I want to continue promoting darts."

Davina Perrin

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's top prospects and burst into the spotlight with an unbelievable and unprecedented innings in August.

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

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

Perrin ended up as runner-up in the run-scoring charts and was named PCA Women's Young Player of the Year.

"I'm truly honoured to be nominated for the young athlete award," expressed Perrin. "It means a great deal. I hope it motivates more young women to get into cricket."

Video description: Memorable speeches from across the awards' past.
Joshua Tucker
Joshua Tucker

Lena Hoffmann is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter, specializing in German current affairs and digital media trends.