Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has become the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, achieving this milestone at the age of 18. In a thrilling finale at the World Chess Championship 2024 held in Singapore, Gukesh defeated reigning champion Ding Liren of China, clinching the title and making India proud.
On Thursday, Gukesh secured his place in history by winning the 14th and final game of the series, which had seemed destined for a draw. With this win, he garnered the necessary 7.5 points to Ding’s 6.5, breaking Garry Kasparov’s record as the youngest world champion. Kasparov had held the title since 1985 when he won at 22.
A Legendary Achievement
Before entering the championship, Gukesh had already made waves as the youngest challenger in the event’s history, earning his place by triumphing at the Candidates Tournament earlier this year. This victory also makes Gukesh only the second Indian to win the World Chess Championship, following in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who last held the title in 2013.
Expressing his emotions after the historic win, Gukesh said, “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.”
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events during the final game, 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.”
Support Behind the Champion
Gukesh credited his remarkable achievement to the guidance of his team, including trainer Grzegorz Gajewski, psychologist Paddy Upton, and support from Radosław Wojtaszek and Pentala Harikrishna. “Gayo (Grzegorz Gajewski) was my trainer for the past two years. Paddy Upton has been a huge support for me in preparation for the World Chess Championship, although he is not part of my team,” Gukesh explained.
Breaking Records and Inspiring Generations
With this achievement, Gukesh joins the ranks of legendary youngest chess champions:
- D Gukesh: 18 years 8 months 14 days (2024)
- Garry Kasparov: 22 years 6 months 27 days (1985)
- Magnus Carlsen: 22 years 11 months 24 days (2013)
Nationwide Pride and Recognition
India’s President Droupadi Murmu praised Gukesh’s achievement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed admiration, stating, “Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. 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.”
D Gukesh’s incredible feat at the World Chess Championship 2024 marks a defining moment for Indian chess, solidifying the nation’s status as a global powerhouse in the game. As the youngest world champion, Gukesh’s achievement will inspire generations of players to follow their dreams. Will he set even more records in the years to come?
