India created history in global speed skating as Anandkumar Velkumar claimed the country’s first-ever gold medal at the Speed Skating World Championships in Beidaihe, China.

The 22-year-old skater dominated the senior men’s 1000m sprint, finishing with a time of 1:24.924. As a result, he became India’s first world champion in the sport.

Just a day earlier, Velkumar had already made history by winning India’s first senior Worlds medal, a bronze in the 500m sprint, clocking 43.072 seconds.

Furthermore, India’s celebrations doubled when Krish Sharma won gold in the junior men’s 1000m sprint, giving the nation two historic titles at the same event.

PM Modi Praises Velkumar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Anandkumar Velkumar for his achievement. He wrote on his Twitter (formerly X) account, "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. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours."

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

Velkumar’s rise to glory

Velkumar’s gold capped a series of landmark achievements. Earlier in 2025, he earned India’s first roller sports medal at the World Games, taking bronze in the 1000m sprint in Chengdu.

Before that, in 2021, he announced his arrival by winning silver in the 15 km elimination race at the Junior World Championships. This success signaled his potential on the global stage.

Later, in 2023, he played a key role in helping India secure bronze in the 3000m team relay at the Asian Games in Hangzhou.

Consequently, by the time the World Championships began, Velkumar had already established himself as India’s top speed skater.

Double medal success in China

Velkumar carried his strong form into the World Championships. First, he claimed bronze in the 500m sprint, giving India a breakthrough at the senior level.

Then, he went a step further by winning gold in the 1000m sprint. This victory made him India’s first-ever World Champion in speed skating.

Moreover, his triumph broke the long-standing dominance of European, Latin American, and East Asian skaters in the sport.

A turning point for Indian skating

Velkumar’s achievements have transformed India’s presence in speed skating. Until now, India had little history in the sport.

However, with medals at the Asian Games, World Games, Junior Worlds, and now the World Championships, Velkumar has emerged as a trailblazer.

As a result, his victories are inspiring a new generation of young skaters. They also prove that Indian athletes can compete at the highest level.

Ultimately, Velkumar’s journey is not only about personal success. It marks a turning point for Indian roller sports, opening doors to a future filled with possibilities and global recognition.