World Championships: Rising Stars to Watch

14 February 2026

The World Championships are more than just a showcase of elite athletes—it's the breeding ground for the next generation of global sports icons. Every few years, fresh-faced competitors step into the spotlight, surprising fans and even experienced pros with their raw talent, fearless performances, and undeniable potential. We're not just talking about the usual headline-makers; we’re diving into the underdogs, the dark horses, the ones who make you sit up and say, "Whoa… who is that?"

Let’s unpack who these rising stars are, why they’re creating buzz, and why you need to keep your eyes glued to the screen when they take center stage.

Why Rising Stars Matter in the World Championships

Rising stars bring the fire. They're young, hungry, and often competing with nothing to lose and everything to prove. These fresh talents inject excitement and unpredictability into the championships. One minute you’re watching a seasoned favorite go through their routine, and the next—bam! A newcomer smashes a record or lands an impossible move. That’s the stuff sports dreams (and viral clips) are made of.

So, who are these game-changers? Let’s break it down by sport because trust me, there’s no shortage of talent.

Athletics: Young Speedsters and Super Jumpers

Erriyon Knighton – USA – Sprinting

If you blink, you might miss him—literally. Erriyon Knighton is being hailed as the next Usain Bolt. At just 19 years old, he already boasts a personal best in the 200m that most athletes dream of. His mix of smooth stride and raw acceleration makes every race a thrill ride. He’s not intimidated by the big stage either, which is a terrifying thought for his competitors.

Yaroslava Mahuchikh – Ukraine – High Jump

Mahuchikh has been quietly soaring—both literally and metaphorically. Her high jump technique is so graceful, it almost looks like her body is made of springs. Still in her early twenties, she already holds national records and consistently stands on podiums. Could she break the world record? Don’t bet against it.

Swimming: Making Waves at Lightning Speed

Summer McIntosh – Canada – Freestyle/Medley

Summer might be young, but she’s already leaving seasoned swimmers in her wake. At just 17, she’s clocked times that rival Olympic gold medalists. Her versatility across events is what sets her apart—you never know when she’ll pop up on the leaderboard. Fans love her humble personality, but in the water? She’s a shark.

David Popovici – Romania – Freestyle

This guy is redefining what it means to be a teen phenom. David Popovici, another swimmer still in his teens, has taken the world by storm with his explosive 100m and 200m freestyle times. He doesn't just swim fast—he glides through the water like it owes him something.

Gymnastics: Grace, Grit, and Gravity-Defying Moves

Shilese Jones – USA – Artistic Gymnastics

Jones has steadily risen through the ranks with powerful performances and a flair for dramatic, clean routines. Her execution on the uneven bars and floor exercise has earned her a devoted fanbase. With Simone Biles paving the way, Shilese is poised to step into even bigger shoes on the global stage.

Jessica Gadirova – Great Britain – Floor & Vault

Jessica brings energy, precision, and charisma to every performance. She and her twin sister Jennifer are helping to revamp Britain’s gymnastics image, and their routines are both bold and beautiful. Keep an eye on her vaults—they’ll knock your socks off.

Football (Soccer): Future Superstars with Magical Feet

Endrick – Brazil – Forward

Signed by Real Madrid before his 18th birthday, Endrick is already drawing comparisons to Ronaldo and Pele. His flair, vision, and finishing ability are light years ahead of his age. In youth competitions and international friendlies, he’s been a standout. He’s the kind of player who scores out of nowhere—blink and you'll miss brilliance.

Linda Caicedo – Colombia – Forward

Linda’s rise is one that movie scripts are made of. After battling cancer, she returned stronger and more focused. Now, she’s dazzling fans with her dribbling, goal-scoring, and leadership on the pitch. At just 18, she’s already a mainstay on Colombia’s national team—and she’s hungry for more.

Track Cycling: Pedal Power Redefined

Zoe Bäckstedt – Great Britain – All-Rounder

Whether it's on the track or in cyclocross, Zoe Bäckstedt is proving she’s got the stamina, skills, and smarts to dominate. She’s a cycling nomad, winning titles across multiple disciplines. And she’s only getting started. Her timing, tactical mind, and fearless sprints are what make her stand out.

Tennis: The Next Grand Slam Titans

Carlos Alcaraz – Spain – Men’s Singles

Alright, tennis fans—you've probably heard of Alcaraz. But if you haven’t been watching closely, you’re missing the evolution of the game in real time. With a mix of power, finesse, and unshakable focus, he’s already picked up a Grand Slam title. The way he dismantles big names is chilling.

Mirra Andreeva – Russia – Women’s Singles

Mirra is all about precision and poise—two things you don’t always associate with teenagers. But this rising star has shown that she’s not afraid of names or numbers. With each tournament, she’s carving out her identity. And trust us, she’s got a lot more to show.

Combat Sports: Young Warriors in the Ring

Javon Walton – USA – Amateur Boxing

You might recognize him from TV (he’s also an actor), but Javon “Wanna” Walton is more than a face—he’s a fighter. Fast hands, fast feet, and a boxing IQ beyond his years make him a name to watch. As he grows into the sport, expect him to become a household name.

Aaliyah Barker – Great Britain – MMA Prospect

With a strong background in jiu-jitsu and boxing, Barker is gaining traction in the amateur MMA scene. She’s agile, strategic, and not afraid to take on stronger opponents. And as the world embraces female fighters more than ever, Barker could lead the next crop of champions.

Why These Athletes Could Become Legends

It’s more than talent. It’s about timing, mental strength, and heart. Rising stars don’t just rely on physical capabilities—they rise because they want it more. They train harder, stay grounded, and seize every opportunity like it’s their last.

The World Championships become the perfect stage. Think of it like the playoffs for passion, where only the most fearless can shine. These athletes represent a shift. They're ushering in a new era of sport where rules are broken, records are shattered, and boundaries are eliminated.

What to Watch For in the Next World Championships

So, next time you're tuning into the World Championships, here’s what to keep an eye on:

- Breakout Performances: Those magical moments when an underdog takes gold.
- National Debuts: Watch how young stars handle representing their country for the first time.
- Clutch Moments: Some rise, some crumble—either way, it’s drama worth watching.
- Record Hunting: Don’t just look at who wins—look at how they win.

Final Thoughts: The Future is Bright (And Really Fast)

Watching rising stars is like catching a rocket launch before it escapes the Earth’s atmosphere. The energy, the hope, the spectacle—it’s all there. These athletes bring emotion, edge, and excellence. They're not just participating in history—they're rewriting it.

So, whether you're a casual fan or a stats-obsessed superfan, make space on your radar for these names. Because today's rising stars? They’re tomorrow’s legends.