22-year-old Anandkumar Velkumar scripts history in China, wins India's first-ever gold at Speed Skating World Championships

India's 22-year-old skater Anandkumar Velkumar scripted history as he won the country's first-ever gold medal at Speed Skating World Championships in China on September 16.

In the senior men's 1000 metre sprint category, Anandkumar clocked 1:24:924.

Earlier, the youngster had won a bronze medal at the tournament in Beidaihe, China as well. In the senior men's 500 metre sprint event, he finished third at 43:072.

Also, in the junior category, Krish Sharma secured a gold medal in 1000 metre sprint.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Velkumar for his historic performance.

“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,” the PM wrote on X.

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India's Sports Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya lauded the two youngsters for winning the gold as well.

“Double Golden Glory! Bharat shines at the World Speed Skating Championship 2025 in China as Krish Sharma & Anand Velkumar strike Gold in the 1000m sprint (Junior & Senior),” Mandaviya wrote on X.

“History made. Nation proud.”

Velkumar’s previous wins

The Tamil Nadu-born skater had won a bronze in 2025 World Games in Chengdu in the 1000 metre sprint category.

In 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, he won a bronze medal in 3000 metre team relay event. In Ibague Junior World Championships 2021, he won a silver in 15km elimination.