Gukesh Dommaraju, the 18-year-old chess prodigy from India, has earned his place in history after defeating Chinese grandmaster Ding Liren to become the youngest world chess champion ever. This landmark moment unfolded on December 12, 2024, during the World Chess Championship held in Singapore, marking not just the triumph of Gukesh but also the dawn of a new era for chess.
Gukesh's victory did not come easily. The championship series, spanning almost three weeks, consisted of 14 intense games where each player showcased their skill and resolve. The final score was 7.5 to 6.5, highlighting the intricacies of the matches and the strategic maneuvering required by both players. Gukesh’s rise to the championship is notable not only for his impressive young age but also for the legacy he now carries as the 18th world champion.
The young talent, born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, started his chess career at the tender age of seven. His parents, Dr. Rajinikanth and Dr. Padma, played pivotal roles in nurturing his talent, dedicatively supporting him as he climbed the ranks of chess. Gukesh's first major achievement came when he won the Under-9 Asian School Chess Championship back in 2015, and his rapid ascent continued as he became the third-youngest player ever to be crowned as Grandmaster at just 12 years and 7 months.
After qualifying for the championship by winning the International Chess Federation’s Candidates Tournament earlier this year, Gukesh faced Ding, who was regarded as the defending champion entering the matches. Despite Ding's initial lead after winning the first game, Gukesh equalized the score, showing his tenacity and tactical brilliance as he adapted to each round's challenges.
The decisive game unfolded with both players locked in fierce competition. Gukesh, playing with the black pieces, initially seemed positioned for what might be yet another draw. But then came the turning point. Ding made what many described as a surprising blunder by misplacing his rook, opening the door for Gukesh's calculated counterattack. This moment proved to be Ding's undoing—he resigned just three moves later, surrendering the championship.
"It took me a long time to realize I made a blunder," Ding admitted during the post-match press conference. Reflecting on his performance, he concluded, "I could be so much stronger, but considering yesterday's luck, it's fair to lose at the end. I have no regrets."
For Gukesh, the moment was overwhelming. He expressed his astonishment, saying, "It was probably the best moment of my life." With tears of joy streaming down his face, he embraced his newfound title as the youngest world champion, surpassing the previous record held by Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who was 22 years old when he won his title back in 1985.
The chess community—and India at large—celebrated Gukesh's groundbreaking achievement. Not only did he become the second Indian to win the World Chess Championship after the legendary Viswanathan Anand, but he also symbolized the growing strength of Indian chess on the global stage. Anand himself shared his pride, calling it not only significant for chess but also for India: "It’s a proud moment for chess, and for me, it's personal pride too."
Political figures and sporting legends applauded Gukesh's success as well. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his congratulations, attributing Gukesh’s win to his extraordinary talent and hard work. Rahul Gandhi, former leader of the opposition, echoed these sentiments, expressing pride for the young champion through social media. Gukesh also received accolades from across different spheres, including cricket, with the Chennai Super Kings franchising lauding his win, and none other than cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar praising his influence on the next generation of chess players.
The triumph represented more than just individual success; it showcased the evolution of the sport, hinting at changing dynamics with younger players like Gukesh, who has demonstrated not only capability but the potential for brilliance from the moment he stepped onto the competitive chess scene. His rapid ascent, from competing at local school tournaments to standing atop the world chess championship podium, is marked by hard work, an exceptional mindset, and undaunted determination.
Gukesh's story is one of inspiration for aspiring chess players and demonstrates how dedication can lead to historic outcomes. With combined qualities of strategic foresight and sound emotional intelligence on the board, he has now opened the door for endless possibilities within the chess community.
The chess world looks forward to witnessing how Gukesh will continue to shape this ancient game. His record as chess's youngest champion not only establishes him among the legends but also strengthens the legacy of Indian chess for generations to come, captivating the imaginations of young players aspiring to follow the footprints of their newest hero.
