Michelle Agyemang Named BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year 2025

Rising Star Claims Prestigious Award

England forward Michelle Agyemang has been named BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year 2025, capping an extraordinary breakthrough year for the 19-year-old footballer. The prestigious recognition comes after a remarkable season that saw her help the Lionesses win Euro 2025 in Switzerland, just three months after making her senior international debut.

Upon receiving the award on Thursday, Agyemang expressed her gratitude: “Wow. Thank you so much. I am so grateful. To all my team-mates, coaches, I am so grateful”.

Euro 2025 Heroics Define Breakthrough Year

Agyemang’s rise to prominence was nothing short of meteoric. Just 41 seconds after her senior debut introduction against Belgium, she scored her first senior international goal. However, it was her performances at Euro 2025 that truly captured the nation’s attention.

She proved decisive off the bench at the Euros, scoring crucial late equalisers in the quarter-final win against Sweden and in the semi-final victory over Italy. These clutch moments weren’t just important—they were tournament-saving interventions that kept England’s title defence alive.

Her interventions led to her being named young player of the tournament, and she was later awarded the Golden Girl trophy for the best young player in Europe.

Overcoming Adversity

The award comes during a challenging period for the Arsenal forward, who is currently on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion. Agyemang is set to miss the rest of the 2025-26 season after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament while playing for the Lionesses in October.

Despite this setback, Agyemang has remained positive about her recovery journey, demonstrating the same resilience that made her a hero on the pitch.

Significance for British Sport

Michelle follows in the footsteps of other greats who have won the Young Sports Personality of the Year prize, including Wayne Rooney and Sir Andy Murray, cementing her place among Britain’s most promising young athletes. The award recognises not just her talent, but her composure under pressure and ability to deliver in the most crucial moments.

For football fans and aspiring young players across the UK, Agyemang’s journey from ball girl to England hero in just four years serves as an inspiring reminder that dreams can become reality with dedication and talent. As she focuses on her recovery, the nation eagerly awaits her return to action.