The sports world is turning its gaze toward a promising roster of young talents set to make waves in 2025. Among them, Veerle Buurman has captured significant attention as she embarks on what many anticipate will be a pivotal year for her career.
Buurman, who recently made her debut with the senior national team, is already on her way to solidify her presence on the international stage. Following her performance with PSV, with whom she concluded the previous season as the national champions, she has earned a transfer to Chelsea, one of the most prestigious clubs worldwide. "Where 2024 already felt like a rollercoaster, 2025 is the year she aims to display her talents to a larger audience," noted Tim Hartman, reflecting on her rapid ascent. The defender’s knack for standing out is well-documented; she gained viral fame following her unconventional goal during a friendly against the United States, where her name appeared on both sides of the scoreboard.
Alongside Buurman, another young athlete to keep on your radar is Angel Daleman, just 17 years old yet already turning heads with impressive performances on ice. Training with Team Essent, she has her eyes set on the world championships upcoming this March in Hamar, Norway. With her unique talent spanning both long-track and short-track skating disciplines, it’s no wonder sponsors like Red Bull have taken notice, cementing her status as one of the sport's new superstars. The excitement around her is palpable as she balances between these two exhilarating formats.
Mats van den Bos, at 19 years of age, is similarly staking his claim on the skating circuit with aspirations for Milan 2026 and beyond. He has already made headlines for his remarkable speed and promising finishes. Taking notes from his performances, analysts suggest he’s primed for major competitions, bringing energy and potential to each event he enters. His recent rapid splits show he's growing fast, and with support from the notable influences around him, including the legacy of competitors like Kjeld Nuis, van den Bos aims to secure his place among the sport's elite.
Meanwhile, 21-year-old Tibor Del Grosso is shifting gears on the cycling front as he transitions from junior to professional ranks. With his recent shift from the U23 category to senior racing under the Alpecin-Deceuninck umbrella, he has lots to prove this season. Having already been crowned national champion at the under-23 level and demonstrated prowess by participating at senior events, Del Grosso's participation at major races like the Paris-Nice stand as significant milestones for his road cycling ambitions.
On the football pitch, Kees Smit’s remarkable 2024 with AZ Alkmaar put him under the spotlight after showcasing his skill against European giants like Fenerbahçe. His youthful exuberance mixed with talent has made him one to watch, and analysts have already earmarked him for future national team consideration.
Then there's Judith van der Helm, making substantial strides as she joins Esbjerg after impressing at the handball European Championships. Continental teams are known for scooping prolific talents at early ages, and van der Helm is no exception. Her defensive skills and leadership qualities showcase why she’s seen as integral to the future of Dutch handball.
Finally, tennis prodigy Mees Röttgering stands tall as one of the youngest talents declaring his ambition of playing at the ATP level. Following his impressive half-final performance at the Australian Open, he’s competing next at the prestigious ABN Amro Open. The coaching team remains cautious yet optimistic about his prospects, testing his resolve and mental game amid seasoned players.
Through their shared determination and exceptional skill, the mentioned athletes are collectively building up the narrative of what 2025 could look like. With supportive coaching ecosystems and milestones to achieve, each of these stars prepares not only to face challenges but thrive under the pressure—propelling them to their rightful places as leaders of the next generation across their respective sports.