Former athletes credit steady institutional support for the rise, with improved facilities, coaching, funding, and grassroots programs helping athletes in boxing, badminton, athletics, and more
New Delhi
The year 2025 will be remembered as a landmark period for Indian sport, as athletes across disciplines delivered strong performances and fans showed deeper emotional connection with games beyond cricket.
India saw progress not only in medals and rankings, but also in confidence, professionalism and public support for Olympic and non-Olympic sports. This shift reflected a growing belief that the country can succeed on multiple global stages.
Former athletes and experts credit steady institutional backing for this rise. Improved training facilities, better coaching, grassroots programmes and focused funding helped sportspersons prepare more effectively and compete with confidence. Boxing, wrestling, shooting, badminton, athletics, chess and other disciplines benefited, while cricket continued to draw mass attention.
World Championship medallist Gaurav Bidhuri described the year as special. He said government support has lifted standards and believes the coming seasons will bring even bigger moments with major international events ahead. His words echoed the mood across the sporting community.
Para sports also saw meaningful growth during the year. Increased investment, visibility and access to infrastructure helped para athletes perform at the highest level. Their achievements inspired fans and reinforced the message that inclusivity remains central to India’s sporting future.
India’s image as a sporting destination also gained attention. Football icon Lionel Messi’s visit drew global focus and highlighted the country’s readiness to host major events.
As the year ends, Indian sport stands united, confident and ambitious, ready to build on momentum and aim higher on the world stage, carrying hope, belief and growing pride into the years ahead. The journey suggests sustained growth through planning, patience, unity and ambition nationwide