Indian Grandmaster Gukesh D makes history as youngest World Chess Champion at 18

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has scripted his name in chess history, becoming the youngest-ever world champion at just 18 years old. Gukesh defeated reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the final game of the World Chess Championship 2024, held in Singapore. In a nail-biting 14th and last classical time control game, Gukesh secured victory to clinch the world title with a score of 7.5 points to Liren’s 6.5.

The match, which appeared to be heading for a draw for much of the decisive game, turned in Gukesh’s favor after a critical error by Liren. With this win, Gukesh shattered the record previously held by legendary Russian Grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who won the world title at the age of 22 in 1985. Gukesh also becomes only the second Indian to claim the chess crown, following in the footsteps of five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, who last held the title in 2013.

“I’ve been dreaming about this moment for 10 years! Every chess player wants to experience this. I am living my dreams. Thanks to God first of all,” Gukesh said after the historic win. He added, “I got emotional because I wasn’t expecting to win from that position. I was going to press. But I was like, let’s focus on tie-breaks. But when I saw the blunder, I came to realize that I had achieved my dream.”

Gukesh credited his success to his team and mentors, particularly trainer Grzegorz Gajewski and performance coach Paddy Upton, whose guidance played a vital role in his preparation. “Gayo (Grzegorz Gajewski) was my trainer for the past two years. Paddy Upton has been a huge support for me in preparation to World Chess Championship, although he is not part of my team. Radosław Wojtaszek is there. Pentala Harikrishna is also there,” he shared.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu praised Gukesh on social media, wrote, “Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud. His victory stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse. Well done Gukesh! On behalf of every Indian, I wish you sustained glory in the future.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated the young Grandmaster for his remarkable achievement. “Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. His triumph has not only etched his name in the annals of chess history but has also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence. My best wishes for his future endeavors. @DGukesh,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.

Gukesh now leads a prestigious list of youngest world chess champions, surpassing the likes of Garry Kasparov, Magnus Carlsen, and Mikhail Tal. His victory is not just a personal milestone but a moment of pride for India, further cementing its position as a rising chess powerhouse.

About Author

SSZee Media

Provider of Quality Entertainment News and Information

See author's posts