By Kritika Gangwar
Indian skater Anandkumar Velkumar created history by winning India’s first gold at the Speed Skating World Championship in China last Monday. He is a 22-year-old skater who won first prize in senior men’s 1000m sprint with a time of 1:24.924, according to ESPN.
This achievement was followed by his last success in junior competition, where he secured a bronze medal in a 500m sprint with a time of 43.072s, making it India’s first senior world championship at Beidaihe.
Adding to this success of India, Krish Sharma, a junior skater also secured a gold medal in the 1000m sprint.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, serving as Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports from 2019-21, wrote on X, “What a glorious moment for Indian sports! Anandkumar Velkumar clinches Gold in the 1000m sprint at the Speed Skating World Championship in the sport. Proud of you, Champ!”.
This victory marks a turning point for Indian sports which is often overshadowed by mainstream sports like cricket and hockey. Anandkumar Velkumar’s story will work as a stepping stone for the other aspiring new generation of India.
“Proud of Anandkumar Velkumar for winning the Gold at the Senior Men’s 1000m Sprint in the Speed Skating World Championship 2025. His grit, speed and spirit have made him India’s first World Champion in skating. His accomplishment will inspire countless youngsters. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours,” Prime Minister Modi wrote on X.
Anandkumar Velkumar expressed his gratitude to his family, coaches and his supporters. He dedicated his medal to the Indian youngsters who are working hard to make their mark in Indian Sports and urged them to stay dedicated .