The world of sports is constantly evolving, with new talents emerging across various disciplines. As we move through 2025, several young athletes are making significant strides and capturing the attention of fans and experts alike. Here’s a look at five rising stars who are poised to make a lasting impact in their respective sports.
1. Zaccharie Risacher – Basketball (NBA)
At just 19 years old, French basketball prodigy Zaccharie Risacher has taken the NBA by storm. Drafted first overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2024 NBA Draft, Risacher’s transition into the league has been nothing short of impressive. In his rookie season, he has already achieved multiple career highs, including a 38-point game against the Brooklyn Nets. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats, and many believe he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Hawks’ future.
2. Claudia Hollingsworth – Track and Field (Australia)
Australian middle-distance runner Claudia Hollingsworth is making waves in the athletics world. At the age of 19, she became the Australian national champion and set a national under-20 record in the 800 meters. Her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she made her debut in the women’s 800m, showcased her potential on the world stage. Coached by former Olympian Craig Mottram, Hollingsworth is considered one of Australia’s brightest young talents in track and field.
3. Anmol Kharb – Badminton (India)
Seventeen-year-old Anmol Kharb has emerged as a formidable force in the world of badminton. In 2024, she clinched her maiden international title at the Belgian International and followed it up with another victory at the Polish International. Her contributions were instrumental in India’s historic gold medal win at the Asia Team Championships. With a career-high world ranking of 66, Kharb is rapidly gaining recognition and is poised to become a prominent figure in international badminton.
4. Angel Reese – Basketball (WNBA)
Angel Reese, known as “Bayou Barbie,” has quickly established herself as a dominant force in women’s basketball. After a stellar college career at LSU, she was drafted seventh overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft. In her rookie season, Reese led the league in rebounding and earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team. Her defensive prowess and scoring ability were further recognized when she was named the Unrivaled Defensive Player of the Year in 2025.
5. Jada Cooper – Basketball (USA)
Jada Cooper is a name that basketball enthusiasts should keep an eye on. Known for her exceptional scoring ability and playmaking skills, Cooper has been making waves in the youth basketball circuits. Her performances have garnered attention from top college programs, and she is widely regarded as one of the top young prospects in the country. As she continues to develop her game, Cooper is expected to make a significant impact in the world of basketball in the coming years.
Honorable Mentions
While the above athletes are currently making headlines, several others are also showing immense promise:
- Gigi Robinson – Skateboarding (USA): At just 17, Robinson has already secured multiple medals at the X Games and is considered a rising star in the skateboarding community.
- Usher Bahati – Track and Field (USA): Bahati’s explosive speed and agility have made him one of the most exciting young sprinters to watch.
- Leo Vasquez – Soccer (USA): Vasquez’s technical skills and vision on the field have earned him a spot among the top young soccer talents in the nation.
- Samir Patel – Swimming (USA): Patel’s prowess in the pool has seen him break several age-group records, positioning him as a future star in competitive swimming.
Conclusion
The future of sports is bright, with these young athletes leading the charge. Their dedication, skill, and passion for their respective sports serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. As they continue to hone their craft and achieve new milestones, it’s clear that the sports landscape will be significantly shaped by these rising stars in the years to come.
