Gukesh D Crowned as Youngest-Ever Chess World Champion
SINGAPORE, December 12, 2024 - In a historic turn of events at the FIDE World Chess Championship, 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has emerged victorious against China's Ding Liren in the 14th and final game, cementing his place as the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess world champion. This monumental achievement not only surpasses the record previously held by Garry Kasparov but also marks a new chapter in the annals of chess history.
The championship, which took place in Singapore, was a grueling contest of strategy, endurance, and mental fortitude. Gukesh, who had started the tournament with a loss, showed remarkable resilience by securing a crucial win in Game 11, which gave him the lead. Despite Ding's comeback in Game 12, the final game was where Gukesh's moment of glory arrived. With Ding Liren playing the black pieces, a critical endgame blunder allowed Gukesh to capitalize, clinching the match with a score of 7.5-6.5.
The game's turning point was met with an overwhelming emotional response from Gukesh, who was seen in tears at the board, overwhelmed by the realization of his achievement. The victory was not just a personal triumph but a moment of national pride for India, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, the last Indian to hold the world title in 2012.
Congratulatory Messages from Eminent Personalities:
The chess world and beyond have showered Gukesh with accolades.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his admiration, "Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work and unwavering determination. 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 and pursue excellence. My best wishes for his future endeavours."
- Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion and Gukesh's mentor, shared his pride, "Congratulations! It's a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, a proud moment for WACA, and for me, a very personal moment of pride. Ding played a very exciting match and showed the champion he is."
- President of India, Droupadi Murmu, congratulated Gukesh, stating, "Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud. His victory stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse. Well done Gukesh! On behalf of every Indian, I wish you sustained glory in the future."
- Neeraj Chopra, India's Olympic gold medalist in javelin, joined the celebrations, tweeting, "Congratulations, Gukesh! The best in the world and the youngest to ever do it. India is proud!"
- Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, highlighted Gukesh's broader impact, "The ICEMAN prevails!! He comes from a swelteringly hot state, but he's shown he can keep his cool even when competitive heat is at its peak. Just 17 years old, Gukesh has a long and shining future ahead of him. And so does Indian Chess. An entire nation stands and Cheers…"
- BJP leader Praful Patel also extended his congratulations, emphasizing Gukesh's influence on the youth, "Heartiest Congratulations to Gukesh D! Your extraordinary achievement reflects your immense talent, relentless hard work & indomitable spirit. This historic milestone not only cements your legacy in the world of chess but also ignites aspiration in countless young minds."
- Judit Polgar, known as the strongest female chess player in history, gave her nod to Gukesh's achievement with, "The youngest challenger, the youngest king! Amazing achievement! Congratulations to D Gukesh for winning the World Chess Champion!"
- Hikaru Nakamura, who Gukesh faced in the Candidates Tournament, acknowledged the accomplishment, "Huge congrats to Gukesh and all of India and Indians everywhere. What a stellar accomplishment!"
- Sachin Tendulkar, the cricket legend, joined in the praise, "What a fantastic achievement by Gukesh! Winning the World Chess Championship at such a young age is truly inspirational. Congratulations on bringing more glory to India!"
- Amitabh Bachchan, the Bollywood icon, shared his joy, "A roar of pride for our young genius, Gukesh D! His triumph on the global stage is not just a victory in chess but for the entire nation. Congratulations, and may you keep scaling new heights!"
- Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, commented, "Gukesh's achievement is a testament to the power of youth and the prowess of Indian talent. His journey to the top is a beacon of inspiration. Congratulations on this historic win!"
- Sushmita Sen, former Miss Universe and actress, added her voice, "Wow! Gukesh, you've not only conquered the chessboard but also our hearts. Here's to many more victories. Congratulations, champion!"
Gukesh's path to the championship was paved with both challenges and triumphs. His success in the Candidates Tournament earlier in the year had already marked him as a prodigious talent, but this victory has solidified his status as a chess icon. His preparation, under the guidance of Polish GM Grzegorz Gajewski, was crucial in navigating the high-stakes matches with poise.
This victory has ignited celebrations across India and has positioned Gukesh as a beacon of inspiration for young chess players worldwide. His story is one of dedication, strategic genius, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, elements that will continue to define his legacy in the chess world.