In a landmark achievement for Indian chess, Grandmaster D Gukesh has become the youngest world chess champion at the age of 18, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a dramatic final game in Singapore. Gukesh is the second Indian to claim this prestigious title, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion.
Key Highlights of Gukesh’s Victory
- Historic Win: Gukesh clinched the title with a score of 7.5–6.5 after winning the decisive 14th game.
- Prize Money: The champion takes home a remarkable $1.3 million (approx. ₹11.03 crore) from the $2.5 million prize pool.
- Legacy and Mentorship: Gukesh attributes his success to his mentor, Viswanathan Anand, whose guidance at his chess academy played a pivotal role in shaping his career.
Turning Point in the Final Game
- The game, lasting 58 moves over four hours, was poised for a draw before a critical lapse by Liren.
- Gukesh’s perseverance and ability to exploit opportunities led to a historic win, leaving the chess world stunned.
Historic Context
- Before Gukesh, Garry Kasparov held the record as the youngest world chess champion, winning the title at 22 in 1985.
- Gukesh’s triumph comes amidst a golden era for Indian chess, with teams winning the Olympiad gold in both men’s and women’s categories this year.
A Dream Realised
Gukesh described the moment as the culmination of a decade-long dream, saying, “Every chess player wants to live this dream. I am living my dream.”
India’s Chess Renaissance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the achievement “historic and exemplary,” praising Gukesh’s talent, hard work, and determination.
This victory marks a new era of dominance for Indian chess, further cementing the country’s reputation as a global chess powerhouse.
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