Top 5 Rising Sports Stars to Watch in 2025

Occasionally, a new generation of athletes develops with the talent, work ethic, and fame to change the course of their sport. That's what we're seeing in 2025. 

This year is full of rising sports stars, from teenage sensations shattering records to unknown competitors making their debut on the international scene.

These breakout athletes are reinventing the game, not just playing it. The new talent in sports right now is incredible, whether it's a young basketball star who attracts early comparisons to legends, a football player of the future who impresses with exceptional footwork, or an Olympic hopeful who draws attention with every performance.

These names are rapidly becoming unmissable as 2025 progresses. Thus, this list is where the future starts if you're wondering who will eventually dominate headlines, highlight reels, and even discussions about being inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi – Young Cricketer Breaking T20 Records

A 13-year-old cricket prodigy from Bihar, India, recently gained international notice by smashing several cricket records. He became the youngest player to ever score a century at any professional level in October 2024 while playing for the India Under-19 squad in Chennai against Australia. 

The century he scored off just 58 balls was the fastest by an Indian in Under-19 Test cricket and the second-fastest overall, only surpassed by Moeen Ali's 56-ball century in 2005. His incredible innings of 104 runs off 62 balls, including 14 fours and four sixes.

At the age of 13 years and 243 days, Suryavanshi became the youngest player ever to be sold in the history of the IPL when he was signed by the Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore (about $130,000) at the 2025 auction. This accomplishment comes after he made his debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, when he demonstrated his ability by hitting two sixes in his short innings off a left-arm pacer.

Vaibhav's story is a monument to enthusiasm and dedication. He was born to Sanjiv Suryavanshi, a former cricket player who supported his family's cricketing goals by working at a variety of occupations.

Deivid Washington – Football Prodigy Getting International Attention

The 19-year-old Brazilian attacker Deivid Washington has gained international attention and quickly risen to stardom in the football world. Washington was born in Itumbiara, Goiás, and played for Grêmio as a young player until relocating to Santos in 2016. 

With 16 goals in 2022, he topped the Campeonato Paulista Sub-17 scoring lists, showcasing his extraordinary talent. The following year, he scored 17 goals in juvenile events. He made 16 appearances and scored two goals for Santos' senior squad after earning his place there thanks to his performances.

For an estimated €20 million, Chelsea signed Washington to a seven-year contract in August 2023. This action was a component of Chelsea's larger plan to sign young, talented players from South America. Due to the lack of first-team opportunities during his tenure at Stamford Bridge, he returned on loan to Santos for the 2025 campaign.

Washington has competed internationally for Brazil at the U20 level, helping the squad win the South American U20 Championship in 2025.

Mirra Andreeva  – Teenage Tennis Star Hitting Global Headlines

With her incredible accomplishments in 2025, the 17-year-old Russian tennis star has been making headlines on the international scene. She recently defeated Aryna Sabalenka in an exciting final at the Indian Wells Open to win her second WTA 1000 championship. 

She became the youngest winner in the tournament's history since Serena Williams in 1999 with this triumph, which also marked her third career WTA Tour title. During her remarkable run, Andreeva defeated top-ranked players like Iga Świątek and Elena Rybakina, demonstrating her extraordinary skill and tenacity on the court.

She won the title by defeating Clara Tauson in straight sets at the age of just 17 years and 299 days. She became the youngest player to achieve this feat since Nicole Vaidišová in 2007, and it catapulted her into the top 10 of the WTA rankings. Her victories over several Grand Slam champions further emphasized her achievement in Dubai and cemented her place as a rising star in women's tennis.

Francisco Prado – UFC Fighter

A promising 22-year-old Argentine mixed martial artist, Francisco Prado, is a welterweight competitor in the UFC. Prado, an Argentine, started his professional mixed martial arts career in 2019 and immediately became well-known for his explosive fighting style and skill at the end. He had a stellar record of 12 wins and 2 losses before joining the UFC, all of which came via submission or knockout. ​

In February 2023, Prado made his UFC debut at UFC 284, where he faced Jamie Mullarkey. Prado demonstrated his determination and drive despite losing the fight by unanimous decision. He won his first UFC fight in July 2023 when he defeated Ottman Azaitar via first-round TKO at UFC on ESPN 49.

Victor Wembanyama – Basketball Rookie Turning Heads in Preseason

The 7-foot-4 French sensation Victor Wembanyama has been gaining a lot of attention in the NBA and winning over fans with his amazing abilities and performances. 

He demonstrated his ability and versatility in his preseason debut by scoring 20 points in just 19 minutes, showcasing his potential. He then had an even better performance against the Miami Heat, showing off his basketball IQ and all-around skill set with 23 points, four rebounds, four assists, and three blocks in 23 minutes.

Conclusion

These athletes’ performances have generated a lot of talk, as seen by the increase in social media followings and an increase in deals for sponsorship.

Prominent figures in media and sponsorship are already vying for their services, positioning these up-and-coming players to not only revolutionize the sport but also the sports industry in 2025. 

Follow these awesome players on social media to stay in touch with them; they frequently provide training updates, behind-the-scenes photos, and personal stories. The world is watching, so make sure to capture their next big moments.