In a landmark moment for Indian sports, Anandkumar Velkumar scripted history by becoming India’s first-ever world champion in skating. At the Speed Skating World Championships 2025, held in Barcelona, Spain, Velkumar clinched the gold medal in the men’s 10,000-meter speed skating event. His victory not only marked a personal triumph but also placed India firmly on the global skating map. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to congratulate the young athlete, hailing his achievement as “a golden chapter in India’s sporting history.”

This win has sparked celebrations across the country, particularly within India’s growing skating community, where Velkumar is now regarded as a pioneer and inspiration for future generations.

The Road to Gold

Velkumar’s path to the world championship title was anything but easy. Born in Tamil Nadu, he began skating at a young age, initially training on modest rinks with limited facilities. Despite the challenges, his natural talent and relentless determination shone through. Over the years, he represented India at various Asian and international tournaments, steadily improving his timing and stamina.

His crowning moment came in 2025 when he faced off against some of the world’s most formidable skaters, including reigning champions from South Korea, Italy, and the Netherlands — nations traditionally dominant in the sport. With nerves of steel and incredible speed, Velkumar clocked an exceptional timing that stunned both spectators and fellow competitors.

The gold medal was not just a victory for him but for an entire nation that had long waited to see representation in sports beyond cricket, badminton, and athletics.

Prime Minister’s Words of Praise

Soon after the victory, Prime Minister Modi took to social media to extend his congratulations. In a heartfelt message, he wrote:

“Congratulations to Anandkumar Velkumar on his historic victory at the Speed Skating World Championships 2025. His gold medal has made every Indian proud. He has shown the world that India’s youth can conquer new frontiers in global sports.”

The Prime Minister’s recognition further highlighted the importance of Velkumar’s achievement in strengthening India’s ambitions to diversify its sporting success.

Skating in India: A Struggle for Recognition

Skating has long been a niche sport in India. While cricket dominates the sports landscape, other games often struggle for funding, infrastructure, and media attention. Skating, despite its growing popularity among urban youth, rarely received government or corporate support at the level required to produce world-class athletes.

Velkumar’s triumph is expected to change this narrative. Experts believe his victory will spark new interest in skating, encourage investment in skating rinks, training centers, and most importantly, inspire children to pursue the sport seriously.

Sports analyst Ramesh Menon commented:

“This is not just a medal. It is a breakthrough moment. With the right support, India can produce many more champions in skating and winter sports.”

Anandkumar Velkumar: The Journey of a Champion

• Early Life: Velkumar grew up in a modest household in Tamil Nadu. His parents supported his passion despite limited resources, often making sacrifices to ensure he could afford skates and training sessions.
• National Recognition: He first came into the limelight at the 2018 National Skating Championships, where he won multiple medals.
• International Exposure: Representing India at the Asian Games 2022, Velkumar impressed with a top-5 finish, signaling his potential at the global level.
• Breakthrough: His persistence finally paid off at the World Championships 2025, where he delivered India’s first gold medal in the history of the tournament.

Celebrations Across the Nation

From Chennai to Delhi, skating clubs and sports enthusiasts erupted in joy after the news of Velkumar’s victory broke. Social media platforms were flooded with congratulatory posts, making #AnandkumarVelkumar and #SkatingGold trend nationwide.

Students from his alma mater organized a celebratory rally, while the Tamil Nadu state government announced plans to felicitate him with a cash prize and a government job as recognition for bringing global glory to the state and the nation.

A Step Towards Diversifying Indian Sports

India has traditionally excelled in cricket, hockey, wrestling, and more recently, badminton and athletics. Velkumar’s triumph in skating signals the expanding horizons of Indian sports. It demonstrates that with determination and the right ecosystem, Indian athletes can excel even in disciplines that are not historically associated with the country.

His win is expected to:

1. Encourage policy-makers to provide better infrastructure for skating.
2. Inspire corporate sponsors to invest in new sports.
3. Motivate young athletes to dream beyond traditional sporting careers.

Challenges Ahead

While the victory is historic, experts warn that the journey ahead requires sustained efforts:

• Infrastructure Gaps: India has very few international-standard skating rinks.
• Coaching and Training: A lack of certified coaches remains a major hurdle.
• Funding: Financial support for equipment, travel, and training abroad must increase.
• Public Awareness: Greater media coverage and public awareness campaigns are needed to popularize the sport.

If these challenges are addressed, Velkumar’s gold medal could become the foundation for India’s long-term success in skating and other winter sports.

The Global Impact

Velkumar’s gold has also resonated internationally. Global sports media hailed it as one of the most surprising and inspiring wins of the championship. Analysts noted that his victory challenges the dominance of European and East Asian nations in speed skating.

A European sports magazine wrote:

“Anandkumar Velkumar has broken barriers and announced India’s arrival on the skating world stage. His story is a testament to grit and determination against the odds.”

The Role of Family and Mentors

Behind every champion is a support system, and Velkumar’s family played a pivotal role in his journey. His father, a small businessman, and his mother, a homemaker, ensured he never lacked moral support. Coaches at his local skating club also played a crucial role in nurturing his talent, often training him for extra hours without additional fees.

Velkumar himself acknowledged their role, saying after his victory:

“This medal is not just mine. It belongs to my family, my coaches, and every Indian who believed in me. I hope this win inspires the next generation of skaters.”

India’s Sporting Future: A New Dawn

The Indian sports ecosystem is undergoing a transformation. Government initiatives like Khelo India and increased participation in the Olympics have raised hopes of diversifying India’s sporting success. Velkumar’s triumph will likely accelerate this momentum, especially for sports like skating that require global exposure.

With India set to host several international tournaments in the coming years, there is growing optimism that athletes like Velkumar will spearhead a new era where India is not just a participant but a contender across disciplines