Anandkumar Velkumar, a 22-year-old Indian speed skater, created history by winning India’s first-ever gold medal at the 2025 Speed Skating World Championships held in Beidaihe, China. He secured the senior men’s 1000m sprint title with a time of 1:24.924, becoming India’s first world champion in the sport.
Velkumar had also won a bronze the previous day in the 500m sprint event. The achievement was widely celebrated by officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who praised his grit and determination. Junior skater Krish Sharma also won gold in the 1000m sprint, marking a remarkable day for India at the championships.
Landmark Victory and Official Praise
Velkumar’s gold medal in the 1000m sprint established India firmly on the global roller sports map. Beating competitors such as Italy’s Duccio Marsili, Velkumar clocked 1:24.924 to take top honours at the World Championships. His double podium finish-bronze in the 500m and gold in the 1000m-highlighted his rising dominance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded his achievement on social media, stating, “His grit, speed and spirit have made him India’s first World Champion in skating. His accomplishment will inspire countless youngsters.” Union Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed the pride felt across the sporting fraternity, congratulating him as a “glorious moment for Indian sports.” These official endorsements underline the breakthrough nature of Velkumar’s triumph, inspiring a new generation of athletes and raising awareness of roller sports in India.
Journey of Dedication and Past Achievements
Velkumar’s journey to the top has been one marked by steady ascent and perseverance. Originating from Tamil Nadu, he first gained international attention when he won a silver medal at the Junior World Championships in 2021 in the 15km elimination race. His consistent efforts led to a team bronze in the 3000m relay at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou.
Earlier this year, he made history again by winning bronze in the 1000m sprint at the World Games in Chengdu, India’s first medal in roller sports at the event. These milestones paved the way for his 2025 World Championship success in China. His victory not only marks personal achievement but also represents progress for a sport that receives limited spotlight in India.
Boosting Roller Sports and Infrastructure
The championships, ongoing until September 21, brought further success with junior skater Krish Sharma’s gold in the 1000m sprint, signalling a promising future for Indian roller sports. Following Velkumar’s historic win, sports authorities and government officials have suggested increased funding and support for developing infrastructure and grassroots training.
The aim is to build a robust pipeline for athlete development, ensuring talents like Velkumar have the resources needed to compete internationally. This shift could significantly transform India’s sports ecosystem beyond the more widely followed disciplines.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Anandkumar Velkumar’s gold medal is a testament to the untapped talent and hard work flourishing in less conventional sports. It highlights the need for equitable recognition and support across all disciplines to nurture potential at the grassroots.
At The Logical Indian, this historic success encourages us to advocate for inclusive sports ecosystems where passion and perseverance are rewarded irrespective of the sport’s popularity.
