In the world of sports, every year brings a fresh wave of talent — young athletes who are ready to break records, inspire fans, and redefine what’s possible. As we move through 2026, several rising stars across different disciplines are already capturing attention with their performances, potential, and promise.
Here’s a look at the top 5 rising young athletes to watch this year — athletes who are poised to leave a significant mark in their sports.
1. Lamine Yamal – Football Wonderkid
Lamine Yamal is one of the most exciting young football players in the world today. At just 17, he has already become a sensation with Barcelona and the Spanish national team, known for his incredible creativity, speed, and technical ability on the ball. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of football’s all-time greats, and many expect him to play a major role in international tournaments and club competitions in 2026.
Yamal’s ability to take on defenders, deliver crucial assists, and score goals makes him a standout talent — one who could shape the future of football for years to come.
2. Tetairoa McMillan – NFL Breakout Rookie
In the world of American football, Tetairoa McMillan is quickly becoming a name to remember. The rookie wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers has made a stunning impact in the NFL, setting franchise records for receiving yards by a rookie and showcasing elite speed, agility, and catching ability.
His rapid rise in a league filled with seasoned veterans demonstrates both his physical talent and mental toughness. McMillan is widely expected to become a central figure in the Panthers’ offense and a future NFL star.
3. Jenson Walker – Darts Prodigy
Not all rising stars come from traditional sports — and darts is no exception. Nineteen-year-old Jenson Walker has taken the darts world by storm, rising to the number one ranking in the World Darts Federation (WDF) and defeating established players multiple times.
Balancing his sports career with university studies, Walker combines precision, consistency, and competitive calm under pressure — traits that could see him dominate major tournaments in the near future. His story proves that talent can emerge from unexpected places.
4. Jordan Stolz – Speed Skating Sensation
While winter sports stars sometimes remain outside mainstream headlines, Jordan Stolz is one young athlete you can’t ignore. A remarkable speed skater from the United States, Stolz has already clinched multiple world championship gold medals and aims to continue his winning ways this year.
His explosive starts and top-end speed put him in a class of his own, making him a favorite to win medals across multiple distances. Stolz’s combination of youth, power, and competitive drive makes him one of the most intriguing athletes in winter sports.
5. Mia Brookes – Snowboarding Star
From the slopes, British snowboarder Mia Brookes is earning serious attention as a young snowboarding phenom. At just 18 years old, Brookes has already won world championships and landed advanced aerial tricks that few athletes her age can attempt.
With her combination of daring style and technical precision, she has become a medal contender and a trendsetter in her sport, inspiring audiences around the world with her fearless approach.
Why These Athletes Matter
These rising young athletes represent the future of sport — not just because of their current accomplishments, but because of the potential they have to shape their disciplines. They come from different backgrounds and compete under very different conditions, yet they share:
- Exceptional talent
- Rapid rise through competitive ranks
- The ability to inspire fans globally
- A growing ability to win on the biggest stages
Whether it’s football, American football, darts, skating, or snowboarding, these athletes are ones to follow closely this year — and likely for many years into the future.