FIDE World Chess Championship 2024: 18 years, 8 months, and 14 days—that’s Gukesh Dommaraju’s age today. You might be wondering, who is this 18-year-old kid, and why are we talking about his age? Yes, Gukesh is still a young player.
However, this young prodigy from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, has achieved something extraordinary. Yesterday Gukesh defeated China’s Ding Liren in the final match of the World Chess Championship held in Singapore, creating a momentous achievement for India. He also has broken Garry Kasparov’s record and is now the youngest World Chess Champion.
Breaking Garry Kasparov’s Record
Before Gukesh’s win, Garry Kasparov held the record for being the youngest World Chess Champion. Kasparov became world champion on November 9, 1985, at the age of 22 years, 6 months, and 27 days. Gukesh, at the age of 18 years, has surpassed this milestone, making him the youngest to claim the title in the history of chess.
A Historic Victory in Singapore
In the final match of the series, Gukesh faced China’s Ding Liren, who was 32 years old. The match was highly competitive, and at one point, it seemed like the game would end in a draw. However, Ding Liren made a critical mistake that allowed Gukesh to capitalize and win the game. Realizing his mistake, Ding slapped the table in frustration. Meanwhile, Gukesh, overwhelmed with emotion, covered his face with his hands. When he uncovered his face, tears were visible in his eyes—a mix of joy and disbelief. This became the tears of a young man who had just etched his name in history.
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… https://t.co/fOqqPZLQlr pic.twitter.com/Xa1kPaiHdg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2024
Gukesh’s Strategy and Mindset
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) promptly recognized the historic feat, posting on their social media (X), “The youngest World Chess Champion in history.” After Gukesh won, several Indian fans cheered and celebrated his historic triumph. As Gukesh walked to the press conference, the crowd chanted his name inside the tournament hall.
Speaking at the press conference, Gukesh shared his strategy: “My entire plan was to keep him under pressure in every game.” His approach worked brilliantly, leading him to victory with a score of 7.5-6.5.
Following in Anand’s Footsteps
Gukesh has now become the second Indian after five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand to win this prestigious title. Despite his excitement, Gukesh acknowledged his opponent’s strength, praising Ding Liren for fighting like a true champion. His maturity, despite his young age, impressed many chess enthusiasts.
He entered as the Challenger; he exited as the WORLD CHAMPION! @DGukesh 🇮🇳 👏 ♟️
🔥 Gukesh D leaves the venue right after becoming World Champion! A big hug with his dad, Dr. Rajinikanth, a big hug with his second, Grzegorz Gajewski, and off to the bus for the final press… pic.twitter.com/94UVZRgulK
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 12, 2024
A Journey Rooted in Hard Work
Born to a doctor father and a microbiologist mother on May 29, 2006, Gukesh started learning chess at age 7. At just 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days, he had already become India’s youngest Grandmaster. Two years later, he won the Candidates Tournament, an achievement no Indian had managed since Anand. His achievements continued with a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where he represented India.
In 2022, Gukesh achieved another Milestone. He became the youngest chess player to defeat Magnus Carlsen. Carlsen later became the world champion. Now, Gukesh himself is the youngest world champion in the history of chess.
“I think I played my best tournament of the year. It could be better, but considering yesterday’s lucky survive it’s a fair result to lose in the end. I have no regrets.” 🇨🇳 Ding Liren #DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/NkB6hy1qum
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 13, 2024
In conclusion, We Can Say From a young chess enthusiast to the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, Gukesh has proven that age is no barrier to success. His victory has made India proud and has set a new benchmark in the world of chess. As the chess world celebrates this historic achievement, Gukesh’s journey is just beginning, and it’s clear that he has a long and promising career ahead of him.