Young Stars Who Made Sporting Headlines in 2024
2024 has been a year of incredible talent emerging across various sports, with young athletes making major waves. From the Olympics to the tennis courts and football fields, Uduak Oscar of SportsRation takes a look at these rising stars who are already capturing the world’s attention.
1. Lamine Yamal – Football, Spain
At just 17, Lamine Yamal is already one of the most exciting young players in the world. His performances for Barcelona in the 2023/24 season were spectacular, but it was at Euro 2024 where he truly made his mark. Yamal’s contributions were instrumental in Spain’s triumph, earning him the Young Player of the Tournament award. His dazzling skills and goal-scoring abilities have made him a generational talent ready to dominate European football for years to come.
2. Victor Wembanyama – Basketball, USA (San Antonio Spurs)
At 20 years old, Victor Wembanyama has been living up to the hype that surrounded his entry into the NBA. The 7’4″ center is dominating both ends of the court, leading the NBA in blocks per game (3.6). Wembanyama’s 50-point performance on November 13th underscored his potential, and his high efficiency on 2-point shots (61%) and continued improvement in 3-point shooting have made him a key player for the Spurs. His talent and growth are a glimpse into a future NBA superstar.
3. Zheng Haohao – Skateboarding, China
At only 11 years old, Zheng Haohao made history as the youngest Olympian at the 2024 Paris Summer Games. Though eliminated in the first round, her participation marked a milestone for China and inspired young athletes worldwide. Zheng’s early start in skateboarding is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career.
4. Bam Rodriguez – Boxing, USA
At just 24, Bam Rodriguez is rapidly rising through the ranks of boxing. A multiple-title holder, Rodriguez’s standout performance in June 2024, where he knocked out legendary fighter Juan Francisco Estrada, was one of the highlights of the year. With an undefeated record of 20-0 (13 KOs), Bam is poised to cement his legacy as one of the sport’s next greats.
5. Cole Palmer – Football, England
Cole Palmer, has made a significant impact since joining Chelsea from Manchester City. His remarkable performances in the Premier League, including a standout game with four goals in a single half against Brighton, plus a spot among the nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Palmer is already being recognized as one of football’s brightest young talents.
6. Arthur Fils – Tennis, France
At just 20 years old, Arthur Fils is rapidly becoming one of tennis’ most exciting young players. His victory over world No. 2 Alexander Zverev at the Hamburg Open in 2024 marked a significant achievement. Fils’ rise in the ATP rankings has placed him among the world’s top 20 players, with many predicting even bigger things for the French star.
7. Macklin Celebrini – Hockey, Canada
With 32 goals in his freshman season at Boston University, Celebrini won the Hobey Baker Award. The 18-year-old was then drafted No. 1 by San Jose and will work near his dad, Rick, who is VP of player health and performance for the NBA’s Warriors.
8. Joao Fonseca – Tennis, Brazil
Joao Fonseca, 18, has been making waves in the tennis world. With a breakout performance at the Rio de Janeiro Open and a wildcard entry into the Madrid Masters, Fonseca secured his first ATP Challenger title in Lexington, Kentucky. His powerful forehand and shotmaking abilities suggest a bright future for this Brazilian tennis star.
9. Aarti – Athletics, India
Aarti, just 17 years old, made history by bagging India’s first medal at the 2024 World U20 Athletics Championships in Lima, Peru, winning bronze in the women’s 10,000m race walk event. She finished the race in 44 minutes and 39.39 seconds, setting a new U20 national record. Aarti had previously qualified for the Championships with a bronze at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships in April 2024. Her impressive performance marks the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career in athletics.
10. Miles Russell – Golf, USA
Miles Russell has been dominating the golf scene in 2024, becoming the youngest player to ever make the cut on the Korn Ferry Tour. His stellar performance continued with a PGA Tour debut at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Russell shot a 5-under 66 at the Lecom Suncoast Classic in April 2024, highlighting his exceptional talent. His accolades include being named the American Junior Golf Association Player of the Year in 2023 and a seven-shot win at the Junior PGA Championship. With his rapid rise and impressive performances, Russell is poised to make waves in the professional golf world, possibly turning pro in 2025.
These young athletes are just getting started, and 2024 has already been a breakout year for them. Their talents are shaping the future of sports, and fans are eagerly watching their careers unfold. From skateboarding to tennis, boxing, Golf and football, these stars are inspiring the next generation of athletes. Keep an eye on them as they continue to make history.
