India has long been a land of sporting excellence, with athletes who have defied odds and shattered records on the global stage. From track and field to cricket, chess, and weightlifting, Indian sports stars have consistently pushed the limits of human performance.
Their record-breaking feats not only cement their names in history but also inspire future generations to dream big. Whether it’s rewriting Olympic history, setting new benchmarks in cricket, or dominating the chess world, these athletes have proven that India belongs among the elite in world sports. Here’s a look at 10 Indian athletes who broke world records and left an indelible mark on history.
1. Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw – Olympic Gold & National Record Holder)
Neeraj Chopra made history by winning India’s first Olympic gold medal in athletics at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He further set a national record with an 89.94m throw at the 2022 Stockholm Diamond League, making him one of the best javelin throwers in the world. His record-breaking performance put India on the global map in track and field events.
2. Sachin Tendulkar (Most Runs in International Cricket & 100 Centuries)
Sachin Tendulkar is a cricketing legend who holds the record for the most runs in international cricket—over 34,000 runs across all formats. He also became the first player to score 100 international centuries, a record that remains untouched. His longevity, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
3. Virat Kohli (Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000 and 14,000 ODI Runs)
Virat Kohli is known for his aggressive batting and exceptional consistency. He became the fastest player to reach 10,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs) in just 205 innings, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record. Kohli also holds multiple records for fastest milestones in ODIs and T20s, making him one of the most dominant batsmen of the modern era.
4. Ramesh Krishnan (Fastest Chess Grandmaster at the Age of 12)
India has a rich history in chess, and Ramesh Krishnan became one of the youngest Grandmasters in the world at the age of 12 years and 10 months. His record stood strong for years and showcased India’s growing dominance in the sport. His contribution laid the foundation for the new generation of chess prodigies in India.
5. PT Usha (Most Gold Medals in Asian Track Events by an Indian)
PT Usha, known as the “Queen of Indian Track and Field,” set numerous Asian records, including winning five gold medals and one silver at the 1986 Asian Games. She narrowly missed an Olympic medal in 1984 but left an indelible mark on Indian athletics with her speed and resilience.
6. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore (First Indian to Win an Individual Olympic Silver)
Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore became the first Indian to win an individual silver medal at the Olympics in 2004 for shooting. His achievement inspired a generation of shooters, leading to India’s rise as a powerhouse in shooting sports. His record paved the way for future champions like Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang.
7. Mithali Raj (Most Runs in Women’s International Cricket)
Mithali Raj is the highest run-scorer in women’s international cricket, with over 10,000 runs across all formats. She became the first woman to play 200 ODIs and inspired a new generation of female cricketers in India. Her leadership and record-breaking performances helped transform Indian women’s cricket on the global stage.
8. Viswanathan Anand (World Chess Champion and First Indian Grandmaster)
Viswanathan Anand put India on the world chess map by becoming the first Indian Grandmaster in 1988. He later became the World Chess Champion five times and held the title from 2007 to 2013. His rapid and classical playstyle set new benchmarks, making him one of the greatest chess players of all time.
9. Bhavani Devi (First Indian Fencer to Qualify for the Olympics & Break Barriers)
Bhavani Devi became the first-ever Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics in Tokyo 2020. She broke records and barriers in a sport where India had little representation. Her remarkable journey from a non-traditional fencing nation to global recognition showcases India’s expanding prowess in diverse sports.
Closing remarks
These Indian athletes have redefined excellence, setting world records and inspiring millions. Their achievements reflect India’s rising status in global sports. From cricket to athletics, shooting to chess, these legends have proven that with determination, skill, and perseverance, no record is unbreakable. Who do you think will be the next Indian athlete to shatter a world record?
