The men’s 100m at the Federation Cup saw an intense duel between Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur. On Friday, Singh lowered the national record to 10.17 seconds in the first semifinal, only for Animesh to reclaim it minutes later with 10.15 seconds. In Saturday’s final, Singh surged ahead with 10.09 seconds, leaving Animesh 0.11 seconds behind and cementing his status as India’s fastest man.
"The semifinal plan was to go full tilt for 80m and then relax. That was the game plan," said Gurindervir after the race. "I had to go 100% in the final," ... and now India knows just what that 100% means. As he crossed the finish line, he ripped his bib number off his jersey, threw it on the track and let out an almighty roar.
As much as that roar, the bib also carried a message, an insight into Gurindervir's mind. After stomping over to pick it up at the finish line, he raised it for the cameras: "Task is not finished yet," it read. "Wait, I am still standing." And there was a number there that had been double underlined: "10.10s" He had come into the race wanting to hit that mythical (for Indians) mark of 10.10s and he had then proceeded to smash through that barrier. Typical.
Singh’s journey began in Patial village near Jalandhar, inspired by Usain Bolt’s 2008 Olympic win and nurtured by his father’s dedication, including daily trips for training. Early successes included an Asian U18 title in 2017 and a national junior record in 2018, but his progress was stalled by serious digestive health issues. A strong comeback in 2025, under coach James Hillier at the Reliance Foundation, culminated in his historic 10.09-second run.
Having met the Athletics Federation of India’s qualifying standard of 10.16 seconds, Singh will compete at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Coach James Hillier notes his improved race execution and rising performance levels, indicating readiness for higher competition. Singh has expressed that the record reflects his enduring strength and determination on the track.
