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At just 18 years of age, D Gukesh has accomplished what many can only dream of—becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. His historic victory over reigning champion Ding Liren in the 14-game World Chess Championship final in Singapore marks not only a personal milestone but a moment of national pride for India. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has lauded Gukesh’s remarkable feat, calling it a moment that has etched India’s name in golden letters in the annals of chess history.
A Historic Triumph
Gukesh’s victory was a masterclass in focus, patience, and strategic brilliance. The final came down to a tense, winner-takes-all 14th game, where a single misstep by Ding Liren allowed Gukesh to capitalize and claim the title with a scoreline of 7.5 to 6.5. This win not only made him the youngest World Champion in history, surpassing the legendary Garry Kasparov, but also positioned him as only the second Indian to achieve this feat after five-time champion Viswanathan Anand.
AICF’s Resounding Praise
The AICF president, Nitin Narang, congratulated Gukesh on this monumental achievement, highlighting its significance for Indian chess.
“Gukesh’s victory is not just a milestone in his career but also etches India’s name in golden letters in the history of chess. Throughout the tournament, he displayed remarkable focus and patience, which is truly inspiring. Gukesh has emerged as a role model for today’s youth,” Narang said.
He also referred to Gukesh as the “Crown Prince of Chess,” underlining how his victory solidifies India’s growing reputation as a global chess powerhouse.
A Symbol of Hope and Aspiration
The AICF Secretary, Dev A. Patel, echoed Narang’s sentiments, calling Gukesh a symbol of hope and aspiration for millions of youngsters inspired by the game.
“Gukesh’s victory will help the AICF in taking chess to tens of thousands of schools across the country. The AICF already has a ‘chess in school’ program in motion, where hundreds of coaches have been roped in to popularise the game among the young generation,” Patel said.
This win serves as a rallying point for the AICF’s mission to broaden the reach of chess, ensuring that the game continues to grow as a grassroots sport in India.
Building a Chess Ecosystem
AICF Treasurer Dharmendra Kumar highlighted the federation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the chess ecosystem in India. These initiatives have fostered a thriving community of players, coaches, and institutions, evident in the growing number of Indian successes on the global stage.
“The success Indian players have secured in international competitions reflects the robust ecosystem we have been building over the years,” Kumar noted.
The federation’s ‘Chess in Schools’ program, mentorship networks, and international exposure initiatives have laid the foundation for future champions.
Guided by a Legend
Gukesh’s victory comes 11 years after Viswanathan Anand lost his world crown in 2013. Fittingly, Anand himself played a significant role in shaping Gukesh’s journey. Through the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy (WACA), the five-time champion has mentored Gukesh, providing him with invaluable guidance and support.
Anand’s mentorship, combined with WACA’s structured training approach, has been instrumental in Gukesh’s meteoric rise. Gukesh has often acknowledged the pivotal role Anand and WACA have played in his career, with Anand serving as both a guide and an inspiration.
India: The Emerging Chess Superpower
Gukesh’s triumph adds another feather to India’s chess crown, solidifying the nation’s status as an emerging chess superpower. His victory is a testament to the robust support system comprising talented coaches, active federations, and a growing pool of young prodigies.
The AICF’s continuous efforts to popularize chess through programs like ‘Chess in Schools’ and events like the 44th Chess Olympiad in Mamallapuram have significantly contributed to this success. With a vibrant ecosystem in place, India is poised for even greater achievements in the chess world.
Conclusion
D Gukesh’s historic World Chess Championship victory is a defining moment not only for his career but also for Indian chess. It symbolizes the culmination of years of dedication, mentorship, and collective effort by the AICF, mentors like Anand, and countless others who have contributed to the sport’s growth in India.
As AICF President Nitin Narang aptly stated, Gukesh’s name will forever be etched in golden letters in the history of chess. His triumph is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring players and a proud milestone for a nation that continues to rise in the global chess arena.
