Volleyball: India U-15 Boys Create History at World Championship
The Indian Boys' Under-15 Volleyball Team has achieved a historic milestone, securing a semi-final berth in their debut appearance at the ISE Under-15 World School Volleyball Championship in Shangluo, China. On December 11, 2025, the team showcased exceptional skill and formidable team spirit, dominating the group stage with commanding victories over strong teams from Chile and host nation China. They further cemented their place among the world's top four by winning their quarter-final match against Nigeria in straight sets. This achievement, under the banner of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), has garnered significant attention from global sporting enthusiasts.
Hockey: Junior Men's Team Clinches Bronze; Hyderabad to Host Women's Qualifiers
India's junior men's hockey team has brought home a bronze medal from the FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the team, highlighting this as a landmark moment for Indian hockey. In related news, Hyderabad has been selected as the host city for the 2026 FIH Women's World Cup qualifiers, further boosting India's presence in international hockey events.
Football: ISL Clubs Demand AIFF Reforms Amidst Messi's Non-Footballing Visit
Twelve Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have collectively urged the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to revise "commercially restrictive" clauses within its constitution during the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 20. The clubs warned that the sport's ecosystem could suffer without urgent changes and proposed transferring the league's long-term rights to the clubs if the AIFF cannot provide a viable commercial framework.
Adding an ironic twist to the current state of Indian football, global superstar Lionel Messi is scheduled to visit India from December 13-15, 2025, for a "GOAT tour" spanning four cities (Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi). However, this visit is primarily focused on non-footballing activities, drawing criticism from figures like former national captain Sunil Chhetri, who declined a meeting, stating it wouldn't meaningfully benefit Indian football. The timing is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League's future due to AIFF's struggles in securing sponsors and broadcasters.
Additionally, star Indian footballer Ashalata Devi has been nominated for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Asian Cup all-time Dream XI in the defenders' category.
Badminton: India Announces Squad for Asia Team Championships; Sindhu in BWF World Tour Finals Quarterfinals
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) announced on December 11, 2025, that two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, and the formidable doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty will lead the Indian squad for the Badminton Asia Team Championships. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Qingdao, China, from February 3-8, where India will defend its women's category title. In individual achievements, PV Sindhu continued her strong performance by reaching the quarterfinals of the BWF World Tour Finals on December 11, 2025.
Boxing: National Championships Rescheduled; President Murmu Honors Women Boxers
The elite men's and women's national boxing championships have been rescheduled to January 4-10, 2026, due to pollution control measures. Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu met and honored the Indian women boxers who achieved historic success at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool. Jaismine and Minakshi secured gold medals, Nupur earned a silver, and Pooja Rani clinched a bronze, bringing pride to the nation.
Kho Kho: India to Host Inaugural Commonwealth Championship
India is set to host the first-ever Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship from March 9 to 14 next year. Over 24 countries have confirmed their participation, with the specific venue within India yet to be finalized.
Para Sports: Abdul Quadir Indori Shines at Asian Youth Para Games
India's Abdul Quadir Indori demonstrated exceptional talent at the Asian Youth Para Games 2025 in Dubai, securing two gold medals in the 50m butterfly and 50m backstroke events. His performance, reported on December 11, 2025, reflects dedication and the growing strength of Indian para-athletes.