In a historic achievement, Indian teenager Gukesh Dommaraju has become the youngest-ever world chess champion at the age of 18, defeating China’s Ding Liren in a closely contested FIDE World Chess Championship final.
This victory cements Gukesh’s position as a rising star in the chess world and marks a significant milestone in India’s chess history.
The Journey of a Chess Prodigy
Gukesh Dommaraju, hailing from Chennai, has long been recognized as a prodigy in the world of chess. His meteoric rise began when he achieved the title of chess grandmaster at just 12 years old, setting the stage for what would become an illustrious career.
Over the years, he has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to analyze complex positions and maintain composure under immense pressure.
The 18-year-old entered the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship held in Singapore as a formidable challenger. Facing off against defending champion Ding Liren, Gukesh showcased remarkable preparation and resilience throughout the tournament.
Read : India Wins Gold in Chess Olympiad for the First Time in History
Despite being seen as the underdog, he demonstrated a deep understanding of the game and a tactical sharpness that ultimately led him to victory.
🇮🇳 Gukesh D 🥹
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 12, 2024
Ladies and gentlemen, the 18th WORLD CHAMPION! #DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/CgzYBgeTfq
The championship match, which spanned two weeks, captivated chess enthusiasts worldwide. With a final score of 7.5-6.5, Gukesh emerged victorious in a contest that featured two wins for each player and eight draws leading up to the dramatic final game.
The Dramatic Final Match
The final game between Gukesh and Ding was a spectacle of high-level chess that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Playing with the black pieces, Gukesh Dommaraju displayed exceptional defensive skills and strategic acumen, capitalizing on a rare error made by Ding in the endgame.
After hours of intense play, Ding, under considerable pressure, made a critical mistake on move 55, placing his rook in a vulnerable position. This misstep allowed Gukesh to seize control of the game, turning a seemingly solid position into a decisive advantage. Realizing his error, Ding slumped onto the table, visibly dejected.
“Ding seemed to have a risk-free chance to push for a win but instead liquidated into a pawn-down endgame,” noted Chess.com in its post-game analysis. Despite the potential for a draw, the mounting pressure led Ding to blunder, ultimately conceding the game.
Gukesh’s emotional reaction to his victory highlighted the magnitude of the moment. Overwhelmed with tears, he admitted that he had not expected to win from that position. The room erupted in applause as spectators celebrated the young champion’s historic achievement.
A New Era for Indian Chess
Gukesh Dommaraju’s triumph marks a new chapter in Indian chess. He becomes only the second Indian to hold the title of world chess champion, following in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who won the title five times. Gukesh’s victory underscores the growing prominence of Indian players in the global chess arena and serves as an inspiration to aspiring chess enthusiasts across the country.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to congratulate Gukesh Dommaraju, describing the achievement as “historic and exemplary.” In a post on social media platform X, Modi praised Gukesh’s talent, hard work, and determination, acknowledging the significance of this milestone for Indian sports.
The championship also carried a substantial $2.5 million prize fund, further highlighting the prestige of the event. For Gukesh, however, the victory was about more than just the prize—it was the culmination of years of dedication and a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Gukesh’s achievement comes at a time when chess is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in India, with several young players making their mark on the international stage. His success is expected to inspire a new generation of chess players and solidify India’s position as a powerhouse in the chess world.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏