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Announced 17 minutes ago

English soccer star Michelle Agyemang, darts player Luke Littler and cricket star Davina Perrin have been named as finalists for the this year's Young Athlete of the Year award.

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

Agyemang was instrumental as the Lionesses secure Euro 2025, Littler secured the world title for the first time, and Perrin burst onto the scene with a unprecedented innings.

Littler claimed this honour in 2024 after his remarkable rise.

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

This year's winner will be revealed live on the annual sports awards show on December 18th.

The show will be broadcast from seven in the evening GMT.

The Football Star

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 was introduced as a substitute to score vital last-gasp goals in both the quarter-final and semi-final.

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 best young player in Europe.

She was also shortlisted for the Kopa Trophy for the planet's top young female footballer.

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'm grateful to God and I'm thankful for the support I've received from my loved ones, mentors, colleagues and supporters."

The Darts Prodigy

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

Littler kicked off the year in incredible form 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 three major tournament wins.

And he wasn't finished there - his win 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.

"Earning a spot on the shortlist for Young Sports Personality of the Year is a huge privilege," stated Littler. "My victory in 2024 was a proud moment for me and I've had another unbelievable 12 months. I want to continue promoting darts."

Perrin's Profile

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's brightest emerging stars and burst into the spotlight with an remarkable and historic innings in August.

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

It also stands as the joint 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 incredibly grateful to be shortlisted for the Young Sports Personality of the Year award," expressed Perrin. "It's a very special feeling. I hope it inspires more young females to get into cricket."