Image courtesy: FIDE
Indian chess sensation D Gukesh has scripted history by becoming the youngest world champion in chess at just 18 years old. The prodigious Grandmaster defeated reigning champion Ding Liren in Game 14 of the FIDE World Chess Championship in Singapore, clinching the ‘Best of 14 Games’ series with a narrow 7.5-6.5 victory.
Gukesh’s historic triumph not only crowns him as the 18th chess world champion but also shatters a 39-year-old record held by Garry Kasparov, who became the youngest champion in 1985. This remarkable achievement also makes Gukesh the second Indian to win the chess world championship, following in the footsteps of his mentor and five-time champion, Viswanathan Anand.
A Championship-Defining Moment
The 2024 FIDE World Championship seemed destined for tie-breaks, with the 14th game heading toward a draw. However, Gukesh capitalized on a critical blunder by Ding Liren on the 55th move, securing a swift victory and claiming the title.
Speaking at the closing ceremony in Singapore, held on Friday evening (3.30 pm IST), Gukesh expressed his emotions:
“This moment feels like I’ve lived it a million times. Every morning when I woke up, this moment was the reason I woke up. To hold this trophy and this reality means more than anything else in my life,” said the young champion.
The victory came with a trophy, a gold medal, and a reward of $1.3 million. Gukesh reflected on his journey, thanking his team and family for their unwavering support:
“This journey has been nothing short of a dream. There have been many ups and downs, many challenges, but I wouldn’t change a single thing. It has been beautiful because of the kind of people I have had with me.”
A Record-Breaking Journey
Gukesh’s rise to the chess pinnacle has been extraordinary. In August 2023, he dislodged Anand to become the top-ranked Indian player. Earlier in 2024, he became the youngest winner of the Candidates Tournament, earning him the right to challenge Ding Liren for the title.
His achievements have been nothing short of spectacular. In the Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary, Gukesh played a pivotal role in India’s historic golden sweep. With eight wins and two draws, he not only contributed to the team’s success but also won individual gold on Board 1.
Praise for Ding Liren
In a display of sportsmanship, Gukesh praised Ding Liren, calling him a “true champion.”
“I would like to thank my opponent Ding Liren. He is, in my eyes, a true champion, and despite a lot of pressure, he was able to put on a huge fight,” said Gukesh.
The Chinese Grandmaster, who is 32 years old, had been the reigning champion and posed a formidable challenge to Gukesh throughout the championship.
A Milestone for Indian Chess
Gukesh’s triumph marks a new era for Indian chess. He is the second Indian to achieve this feat after Anand and has inspired a generation of chess enthusiasts with his meteoric rise. His ability to remain calm under pressure and seize critical moments has earned him comparisons with some of the greatest players in chess history.
As the youngest world champion in history, Gukesh has not only etched his name in the record books but has also laid the foundation for future dominance on the global stage. The chess world will be eagerly watching his next moves as he embarks on a journey to defend his title and solidify his legacy.
Gukesh’s victory in Singapore is not just a personal milestone—it is a testament to the growing prominence of Indian chess on the world stage.
