Historic Gold! Anandkumar Velkumar becomes India’s first world champion in skating

Anandkumar Velkumar clinched gold in the senior men’s 1,000m sprint event at the Speed Skating World Championships in Beijing, marking India’s first world title in the sport.

History was made on Monday as Anandkumar Velkumar became the first-ever Indian to win a gold medal at the Speed Skating World Championships 2025, clinching the top podium in the senior men’s 1,000m sprint event with a timing of 1:24.924.

The achievement is doubly special as it came just days after Velkumar won bronze in the 500m sprint event, marking India’s first senior world championship medal in speed skating. The championships are currently being held in Beidaihe, China, from September 13 to 21.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Velkumar on X, calling the victory an inspiring milestone for Indian sports:

“Proud of Anandkumar Velkumar for winning the Gold at the Senior Men’s 1000m Sprint in the Speed Skating World Championships 2025. His grit, speed and spirit have made him India’s first World Champion in skating. His accomplishment will inspire countless youngsters.”

Proud of Anandkumar Velkumar for winning the Gold at the Senior Men’s 1000m Sprint in the Speed Skating World Championships 2025. His grit, speed and spirit have made him India’s first World Champion in skating. His accomplishment will inspire countless youngsters.… pic.twitter.com/uewup1bGir

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2025

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also hailed the feat, describing it as a “glorious moment for Indian sports” and praising Velkumar’s dedication.
Adding to India’s medal tally, Krish Sharma, a junior skater, also bagged gold in the junior 1,000m sprint category, making this championship one of India’s most successful outings in skating history.

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