At just 18, Dommaraju Gukesh has made history as the youngest chess world champion, defeating reigning titleholder Ding Liren 7.5 to 6.5 in a dramatic match. Gukesh capitalized on Liren’s critical blunder during the final game, leading to his emotional victory. As a rising star in Indian chess, he joins the ranks of legends like Viswanathan Anand. Gukesh’s achievement has generated excitement in both India and China, highlighting the growing prominence of chess in India.
Dommaraju Gukesh: The Youngest Chess World Champion
At just 18 years old, Dommaraju Gukesh has etched his name in history as the youngest chess world champion. The Indian prodigy triumphed over reigning champion Ding Liren in a thrilling world championship match, finishing with a score of 7.5 to 6.5. In a dramatic turn of events during the final and decisive 14th match, Gukesh capitalized on a critical blunder made by the Chinese player when the game appeared destined for a draw.
A Dream Realized
As the moment of victory sank in, an incredulous smile blossomed on Gukesh’s face, quickly followed by tears of joy. This remarkable achievement unfolded in Singapore, where a crucial mistake from Liren paved the way for Gukesh to seize the championship title. Gukesh now joins the ranks of Indian chess legends as the second player to hold the title, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who was champion from 2007 to 2013. “Since I started playing chess, I have dreamed of such a moment,” Gukesh shared as he regained his composure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his congratulations, praising Gukesh’s exceptional talent and dedication.
Despite his youth, Gukesh entered the championship as a favorite, having noted Ding’s recent struggles in the lead-up to the match. The title battle unfolded as a gripping emotional saga over 14 games, with both players securing two wins each, while nine matches ended in draws. Just as it seemed the match was heading for yet another draw, Ding’s focus wavered momentarily.
“Only when I saw him celebrating at the board did I realize that I had messed up,” reflected the 32-year-old Ding after his pivotal 55th move, where he inadvertently placed his rook in a position that allowed Gukesh to dismantle his strategy. With no way out, Liren was forced to resign moments later, shaking Gukesh’s hand and confirming the Indian’s victory. This win also comes with significant financial rewards, as Gukesh will receive a majority of the $2.5 million prize pool. “Every chess player wants to experience something like this; not many have the chance. And now to be one of them—I am living my dream,” he remarked.
Gukesh’s journey to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. He began playing chess at the tender age of seven and quickly made headlines as the second youngest grandmaster in chess history at just twelve years old. His parents made the bold decision to pull him out of school, providing him with more time to hone his skills in chess.
With Anand as both his idol and mentor, Gukesh has drawn inspiration from the former champion, who ignited a passion for chess in India after winning the world title in 2007. The chess scene in India is thriving, with a growing number of young players making their mark on the international stage. Currently, three Indian players are ranked among the top ten by the World Chess Federation (FIDE).
The excitement surrounding Gukesh’s victory was palpable, as millions of fans in China closely followed the championship matches, while Indian media celebrated the historic achievement. “What an incredible achievement,” proclaimed the Times of India, calling it a “proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India,” with Anand himself echoing those sentiments on social media.
Gukesh’s qualification for this championship came after his impressive performance at the Candidates Tournament in April, where he faced and overcame formidable opponents, including vice-world champion Jan Nepomniachtchi. Interestingly, the chess community had noted that the most celebrated player, Magnus Carlsen, chose not to compete for the world title in 2023, raising questions about the potential for Gukesh to carve out a legacy similar to that of Carlsen.