Estonia is celebrating a historic athletic milestone after sprinter Tanel Visnap stormed to victory in the men’s 100m final at the Tokyo Deaflympics, smashing the world record and securing a gold medal for his country.

Visnap delivered a jaw-dropping performance, clocking an astonishing 10.14 seconds, breaking the previous Deaflympics world record and cementing his status as one of the fastest sprinters in Deaf sports history. The electrifying race had the crowd on its feet as Visnap powered ahead from the blocks and maintained a flawless stride to the finish.

Speaking after his win, the 24-year-old said the moment was the result of relentless training and unwavering focus.
“I’ve dreamed of this since I was a child,” Visnap shared. “To break the world record on the biggest stage for deaf athletes—it’s unbelievable. This medal is for Estonia.”

His performance marks Estonia’s first athletics gold at the Tokyo Games and has drawn praise from sports officials back home, with many calling it one of the greatest achievements in the nation’s Deaflympic history.

Coaches credited Visnap’s win to his explosive start, refined sprint mechanics, and exceptional consistency throughout the season. His record time is expected to stand as a benchmark for years to come.

The victory has not only elevated Estonia in the medal rankings but also inspired young athletes across the country—particularly those in the deaf and hard-of-hearing community—who see Visnap as a symbol of determination and excellence.

With this world-record triumph, Tanel Visnap has firmly placed his name among the elite of Deaflympics athletics, proving that speed, heart, and willpower speak louder than anything else on the track.