India Secures Second Spot at Asian Athletics Championships 2025, Gulveer and Pooja Lead Medal Rush
NEW DELHI – Indian athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the 26th Asian Athletics Championships held in Gumi, South Korea, clinching 24 medals (8 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze) and finishing second overall behind China. The event witnessed a powerful display of skill, determination, and resilience by Indian sports stars, with many making their mark in their debut appearances.
Among the biggest highlights was Gulveer Singh, a 26-year-old Army athlete who made history by becoming the first Indian to win two gold medals in a single edition of the championships. He struck gold in both the 10,000m and 5,000m events, setting a new benchmark in Indian long-distance running.
“I am very happy after returning home. My next challenge is the World Championship,” said Gulveer, reflecting his hunger for more victories.
Pooja Singh, an 18-year-old high jumper, soared to gold with a personal best of 1.89m, securing India’s third gold of the tournament and becoming the youngest Indian medalist at the event.
“I am feeling very happy and proud,” Pooja said. Her coach, Balwan Singh, praised her efforts, especially given her humble beginnings in Parta, Fatehabad district of Haryana, where she continues to train.
“Our next targets are the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games,” he added.
In javelin throw, Sachin Yadav bagged a silver with a personal best of 85.16m on his international debut, finishing just behind Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem (86.40m).
“It’s okay, I will try to do well in the next competition and I believe I can beat him,” Sachin said.
In the triple jump, Pravin Chitravel earned a silver with a jump of 16.90m and said,
“My next target is the World Championship in Tokyo.”
Yoonus Shah won bronze in the 1500m in his first senior-level international event.
“I did well, I brought bronze, I felt really good,” he said.
Servin Sebastian, who kickstarted India’s medal tally, claimed bronze in the 20km race walk, earning his first international medal.
“I am happy and proud that I brought a medal for my country,” said Servin.
With a new generation of Indian athletes rising through the ranks, the Asian Athletics Championships 2025 marked a turning point for Indian track and field on the international stage. All eyes are now on the upcoming World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games, where these athletes will aim to raise the bar even higher.
