The 17-year-old darts champion Luke Littler is leading a new class of young athletes, game developers, and entrepreneurs who are making their mark on the world stage. Littler’s unexpected rise to the finals of the Professional Darts Corporation World Championships attracted a record viewership and catapulted him to fame, with a surge in social media followers, television appearances, new sponsorships, and a substantial prize money win. His success has helped elevate the popularity of the sport and showcase the potential for young talent in niche industries.
The Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Sports & Games class of 2024 includes a diverse group of young professionals, featuring athletes, entrepreneurs, game developers, sports business professionals, and esports athletes. The honorees, selected from hundreds of nominations, represent a wide range of backgrounds and industries, with a focus on talent under the age of 30 who are already making significant contributions to their fields. The judges for this year’s list included prominent figures such as Mo Farah, Sarai Bareman, Rina Onur Sirinoglu, and Pontus Eskilsson.
Among the standout individuals on the list are soccer player Aitana Bonmati, who achieved exceptional success in 2023 by winning a World Cup and Champions League title, as well as multiple prestigious awards. Other notable figures include Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, Michael Gunning, Naomi Schiff, Fabio Wibmer, Lucas Hauchard, Dana Sydorenko, and Takumi Jeannin, who have all distinguished themselves in their respective fields. From elite athletes to innovative entrepreneurs, the 30 Under 30 Europe list showcases the diverse talent and potential of young individuals in sports and gaming.
This year’s class highlights the achievements of women and persons of color, with 11 women and 12 individuals identifying as persons of color among the honorees. The list reflects a commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity within the sports and gaming industries, showcasing the talent and potential of young professionals from various backgrounds. From groundbreaking athletes to visionary entrepreneurs, the 30 Under 30 Europe class of 2024 is paving the way for a new generation of leaders in sports and gaming.
The success stories of individuals like Luke Littler, Aitana Bonmati, and Jude Bellingham showcase the potential for young talent to achieve remarkable feats and impact their industries at a young age. With a focus on innovation, diversity, and talent, the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Sports & Games list serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of young professionals who are pushing boundaries and making a difference in their fields. The future looks bright for the next generation of leaders in sports and gaming, as they continue to strive for excellence and inspire others with their accomplishments.
For more information on the 30 Under 30 Europe Sports & Games list of 2024 and to read about the honorees’ profiles and achievements, please follow the provided links. The list was edited by Matt Craig and Alex York, highlighting the exceptional talent and potential of the individuals selected for this year’s class. From rising stars in athletics to innovative entrepreneurs in gaming, the 30 Under 30 Europe class of 2024 showcases the diversity and promise of young professionals in the industry.
