Ritika Singh Becomes India’s First Transgender Gold Medalist, Brings Glory to Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s transgender athlete, Ritika Singh, has made history by winning the gold medal at the Summer Ice Stock Championship 2025, held in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. At just 22 years old, Ritika claims to be India’s first transgender athlete to secure a gold medal in a national-level sporting event.

From Malpura to National Glory
The championship took place from 21st to 23rd November at the Holy Light Higher Secondary School in Bichpuri, Agra. Over 200 athletes from 15 states participated in the event, which marked the first time the sport was organized in a rural setting. Representing Rajasthan, a team of 25 players participated, including three transgender athletes, with Ritika Singh leading the charge. Her victory not only brought pride to her state but also showcased the potential of emerging sports like Ice Stock in India.

Ritika’s Journey in Sports
Hailing from Malpura, Tonk district, Ritika Singh began her sporting career three years ago. In 2024, she had already made a mark by winning one gold, one silver, and two bronze medals at a national-level competition held in Gulmarg, Kashmir. With her latest gold in Agra, Ritika has now accumulated five national medals in Ice Stock, an indoor game played on icy surfaces in sub-zero temperatures, demanding precision and strength to throw a 9-kilogram target across 30 meters.

A Message of Courage and Inclusion
Speaking about her achievement, Ritika Singh said, “Winning the gold medal in Agra is a proud moment for me. If the Indian government and the Rajasthan government support transgender athletes, I aspire to represent India at the international level.”

She further added a message of inspiration for the transgender community: “Being transgender does not make us any less. Despite societal prejudices, if we are committed to our goals, we can achieve great success. I may have faced challenges, but I will turn my journey into a source of pride for the entire community through sports.”

Ritika Singh’s triumph is not just a personal milestone but a beacon of hope for many aspiring transgender athletes across India, proving that determination, talent, and courage can break barriers and redefine norms.