NEW DELHI: Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju, popularly known as D Gukesh, achieved a monumental feat on Thursday, becoming the youngest-ecer world chess champion at just 18 years old.
In a thrilling final match held in Singapore, Gukesh defeated China's Ding Liren, the reigning champion, in Game 14 of their series, with a score of 7.5–6.5.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh, calling his accomplishment "historic and exemplary".
"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," PM Modi wrote on X.
President Droupadi Murmu also lauded 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."
The International Chess Federation confirmed Gukesh's status as the youngest world chess champion in history, surpassing Garry Kasparov, who won the title at 22. Gukesh also became only the second Indian, after five-time champion Viswanathan Anand, to claim the title.
The decisive moment came when Ding, under time pressure, blundered in an endgame that appeared destined for a draw. Gukesh, with a rook, bishop, and one-pawn advantage, tenaciously pressed on, turning the game in his favour. Ding slumped in despair as Gukesh, overwhelmed with emotion, buried his face in his hands.
Fans erupted in cheers, with many Indian supporters chanting his name during the post-match press conference. Gukesh credited his aggressive strategy: "It just takes one game for the strategy to pay off."
Born to a doctor and a microbiologist, Gukesh became India's youngest grandmaster at 12. His meteoric rise includes victories over Fabiano Caruana and Magnus Carlsen.
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