Jude Bellingham and Lamine Yamal crack top five for UK's most-Googled athletes in 2024 - with Barcelona sensation in top three globally

Both Bellingham and Yamal have been making waves throughout the football world after playing starring roles for club and country in 2024. Bellingham won La Liga and the Champions League in his first full season at Santiago Bernabeu, while Yamal cemented his place in the Barcelona starting XI and played a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory in Germany. Interest in the duo has therefore surged, with both making it into the top five most-Googled athletes in the UK. Yamal takes second place, behind darts sensation Luke Littler, while Bellingham is in fourth - behind gymnast Simone Biles but ahead of Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty.

Yamal has also made it into the top three of most-Googled athletes globally. Top spot was taken by Olympic boxer Imane Khelif, with Mike Tyson next on the list. Yamal appeared in third place ahead of Biles and Jake Paul. The Barcelona star only turned 17 in July but already appears well on his way to superstardom. He has regularly been compared with Barcelona great Lionel Messi, despite his tender years, and was named the world's best young player at the 2024 Ballon d'Or awards.

Yamal also finished eighth in the Ballon d'Or rankings. At the age of 17, he is the youngest ever candidate for the prestigious Golden Ball. Bellingham finished in third place, behind Vinicius Jr and winner Rodri.

The two players will be hoping for more silverware this season. Just two points separate Barcelona and Real Madrid at the top of the league table in Spain, while both teams will be expected to progress in the Champions League. Both Bellingham and Yamal also look set to be in the running for the Ballon d'Or in 2025.