A 13‑year‑old Penarth schoolboy has smashed his fourth Guinness World Record rounding off an extraordinary year of achievements that has already put him among the UK’s most promising young freestyle footballers.
James Taylor, a Year 9 pupil at Stanwell School, secured his latest world title on 18 December 2025, with the attempt officially verified on site by his teachers using the school’s sports facilities. The record marks his fourth in less than two years, cementing his reputation as one of the most talented young freestylers in Wales.
Entirely self‑taught, James first picked up a football during lockdown and began practising tricks in his garden. What started as a hobby quickly became a passion, and by the age of 11 he was training daily, studying professional freestylers online and developing his own routines. His dedication paid off: by 2024 he had already achieved a hat‑trick of Guinness World Records for his technical skills.
This year, James also represented the UK at the Under‑16s WFFA World Championships in Freestyle Football, where he won a bronze medal despite being one of the youngest competitors in the category. His performance drew praise from judges and fellow athletes, many of whom have been training professionally for years.
Speaking after his latest record, James said: “I am really pleased to have broken my fourth world record, and I hope I can break some more in the coming years.” He also thanked his teachers at Stanwell School for supporting and officiating the attempt, adding that their encouragement has helped him stay focused and motivated.
With four Guinness World Records, an international medal and a growing profile in the freestyle community, James is already looking ahead to 2026. His goal is simple: keep improving, keep competing, and keep inspiring other young people to try something new.
For now, though, he’s celebrating a Christmas he’ll never forget one marked by yet another world‑beating achievement.
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