As we look toward the future of sports in 2024, several young athletes across various disciplines are making waves and generating excitement among fans and experts alike. These athletes are not only redefining the standards of excellence in their respective sports, but they are also serving as role models for future generations. From football to gymnastics, track and field to tennis, these young stars have shown incredible promise and are poised for breakout performances in 2024.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 emerging young athletes to watch in 2024, detailing their backgrounds, accomplishments, and potential to make a significant impact in their sports.
The Rising Stars of 2024
In the ever-changing world of sports, new talent constantly emerges, bringing fresh energy, innovation, and excitement to the global stage. As we head into 2024, a number of young athletes are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, demonstrating skills and determination far beyond their years. These athletes represent the future of sports, and their potential for success is limitless.
In this article, we highlight 10 of the most promising emerging athletes across various sports. From the football pitch to the track, these individuals are the ones to watch as they continue to develop their talent and leave their mark on the world of sports.
2. Jude Bellingham (Football)
Age: 20
Country: England
Team: Real Madrid
Position: Midfielder
Jude Bellingham has become one of the most talked-about young footballers in the world. His move to Real Madrid in 2023, after an impressive stint at Borussia Dortmund, has only solidified his status as one of the brightest young talents in the sport. Known for his versatility, creativity, and leadership on the field, Bellingham is a complete midfielder with the ability to score goals, make crucial tackles, and dictate the tempo of play.
At just 20 years old, Bellingham has already captained Dortmund in the Bundesliga and played a key role for the England national team in international tournaments. With his rapid progression, 2024 could be the year Bellingham truly establishes himself as one of the best midfielders in the world, and he will undoubtedly be one of the key players for both club and country.
Key Achievements:
- Borussia Dortmund captain at 19 years old.
- Regular starter for the England national team.
- Signed by Real Madrid in 2023 for a record-breaking transfer fee.
3. Emma Raducanu (Tennis)
Age: 21
Country: United Kingdom
Ranking: Rising Star
Emma Raducanu shocked the tennis world in 2021 when she won the U.S. Open as a qualifier, becoming the first player in history to achieve such a feat. Her remarkable rise has since been tempered by injuries and inconsistencies, but 2024 offers a fresh start for this talented young player. Raducanu has shown immense potential, with a powerful baseline game, remarkable court coverage, and mental fortitude beyond her years.
As she works to regain the form that saw her rise to global prominence, Raducanu remains one of the most promising talents in tennis. If she can stay healthy and continue to develop her game, 2024 could be a pivotal year in her career.
Key Achievements:
- 2021 U.S. Open Champion.
- First qualifier in tennis history to win a Grand Slam.
- Rising star in women’s tennis with endorsements and growing global recognition.
4. Erriyon Knighton (Track and Field)
Age: 20
Country: United States
Event: 200m Sprint
Erriyon Knighton is poised to take over the track and field world, particularly in the 200-meter sprint. Knighton became the youngest man to qualify for the U.S. Olympic team in track and field at just 17 years old, and he has already broken Usain Bolt’s under-20 world records. With his combination of speed, acceleration, and technical skill, Knighton is a clear contender for gold in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
The hype surrounding Knighton is immense, and for good reason. As one of the fastest men in the world at such a young age, he’s expected to dominate the sprinting events for years to come.
Key Achievements:
- Broke Usain Bolt’s U20 world record in the 200 meters.
- Youngest American male track athlete to qualify for the Olympics.
- Consistently improving personal best times, indicating future dominance.
5. Carlos Alcaraz (Tennis)
Age: 21
Country: Spain
Ranking: World No. 1
Carlos Alcaraz is a rising star who has already begun cementing his place in tennis history. With his 2022 U.S. Open victory and multiple ATP Masters 1000 titles, Alcaraz has been compared to tennis greats like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. His aggressive playing style, mental toughness, and extraordinary work ethic have set him apart as a future legend of the sport.
By 2024, Alcaraz is expected to dominate the men’s tennis circuit, battling for Grand Slam titles and further solidifying his position at the top of the rankings. With so much potential at such a young age, the sky’s the limit for this talented Spaniard.
Key Achievements:
- 2022 U.S. Open Champion.
- Youngest World No. 1 in ATP history.
- Multiple ATP Masters 1000 titles.
6. Gavi (Football)
Age: 19
Country: Spain
Team: FC Barcelona
Position: Midfielder
Gavi has been a sensation since breaking into the Barcelona first team at just 17 years old. With his maturity on the ball, vision, and technical skills, Gavi has drawn comparisons to Barcelona legends like Xavi and Iniesta. His versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, and his work rate is impressive for such a young player.
In 2024, Gavi is expected to be one of the key players for Barcelona and the Spanish national team as they compete for major honors. As he continues to develop, he is set to become one of the world’s top midfielders.
Key Achievements:
- Integral part of Barcelona’s midfield at a young age.
- UEFA Nations League winner with Spain in 2023.
- Kopa Trophy winner as the best young player in Europe.
7. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (Track and Field)
Age: 24
Country: United States
Event: 400m Hurdles
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has already established herself as one of the greatest hurdlers in history. She broke her own world record in the 400-meter hurdles at the 2022 World Championships, running a mind-boggling 50.68 seconds. As she continues to dominate her event, McLaughlin is expected to further solidify her legacy with another strong showing at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
McLaughlin’s versatility and ability to perform under pressure make her one of the most exciting athletes to watch in 2024, and many anticipate more record-breaking performances from her.
Key Achievements:
- Multiple-time world record holder in the 400m hurdles.
- Olympic and World Championship gold medalist.
- Considered one of the best athletes in the world.
8. Noah Lyles (Track and Field)
Age: 26
Country: United States
Event: 100m, 200m Sprint
Noah Lyles has been dominating the sprinting scene for several years, and 2024 could be his year to firmly establish himself as the best sprinter in the world. Lyles won gold in the 200 meters at the Tokyo Olympics and the World Championships and has set his sights on breaking Usain Bolt’s world records in both the 100m and 200m.
With his charismatic personality, blazing speed, and undeniable talent, Lyles is a force to be reckoned with. He will be a key figure in track and field in 2024, as he looks to add to his already impressive medal collection.
Key Achievements:
- Olympic and World Championship gold medalist in the 200m.
- One of the fastest sprinters in history.
- Set multiple personal bests in both the 100m and 200m.
9. Leylah Fernandez (Tennis)
Age: 22
Country: Canada
Ranking: Rising Star
Leylah Fernandez made headlines in 2021 when she reached the U.S. Open final, defeating several top-ranked players along the way. Known for her tenacity, court intelligence, and never-say-die attitude, Fernandez is a rising star in women’s tennis. Her ability to handle pressure and her impressive all-around game make her a serious contender for major titles in 2024.
As she continues to gain experience and refine her game, Fernandez is expected to compete at the highest level and could soon join the ranks of tennis’s elite.
Key Achievements:
- U.S. Open finalist in 2021.
- Consistently ranked among the top young players in the world.
- Known for her impressive work ethic and mental toughness.
10. Pedri (Football)
Age: 21
Country: Spain
Team: FC Barcelona
Position: Midfielder
Pedri has quickly become one of the most talented and influential young midfielders in world football. His vision, passing ability, and calmness under pressure have earned him comparisons to some of the game’s greatest playmakers. Pedri played a pivotal role for Barcelona and Spain in both club and international competitions.
In 2024, Pedri is expected to be at the heart of Barcelona’s midfield as they compete for major honors in La Liga and the Champions League. As he continues to grow in stature, Pedri is poised to become one of the best players of his generation.
Key Achievements:
- Golden Boy Award winner in 2021.
- Integral part of Barcelona’s resurgence under Xavi.
- A key player for the Spanish national team.
11. Alyssa Thompson (Football)
Age: 19
Country: United States
Team: Angel City FC (NWSL)
Position: Forward
Alyssa Thompson is one of the brightest young talents in women’s football, making headlines as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft by Angel City FC. Thompson’s speed, creativity, and goal-scoring ability have already caught the attention of U.S. Women’s National Team coaches, and she is seen as a future star for both club and country.
With the 2024 Paris Olympics on the horizon, Thompson could make a significant impact on the international stage. Her development will be closely watched by fans and analysts, as she has the potential to become a global football sensation.
Key Achievements:
- No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft.
- Fast-tracked into the U.S. Women’s National Team.
- Regarded as one of the best young forwards in the game.
12. Conclusion
As we head into 2024, these 10 emerging young athletes represent the future of their respective sports. With their talent, drive, and determination, they are poised to leave their mark on the global sports stage and inspire future generations of athletes.
From the football fields of Europe to the tracks of the United States, these young stars have already achieved incredible things. However, their potential suggests that their best performances are yet to come. As fans, we have the privilege of witnessing their rise to greatness, and 2024 will be a pivotal year in the careers of these remarkable athletes.
Stay tuned, because these young stars are just getting started.
