Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju on Thursday etched his name in history by becoming the youngest-ever winner of the World Chess Championship in Singapore. At just 18 years old, Gukesh defeated reigning champion Ding Liren in a nail-biting finale to claim the prestigious title. He is also the second Indian to win the title after Vishwanathan Anand.
This landmark achievement has garnered reactions from across the nation, with notable figures like former World Champion Viswanathan Anand and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending their congratulations.
The emotional moment that 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju became the 18th world chess champion 🥲🏆 pic.twitter.com/jRIZrYeyCF
— Chess.com (@chesscom) December 12, 2024
One of the most touching moments came from Gukesh’s father Rajinikanth, who was seen anxiously following the game on his mobile phone outside the Singapore arena where the championship was being held.
Once Gukesh secured his victory, his father rushed into the hall, where an emotional hug between father and son captured the triumph and pride of the historic moment.
The championship match between Gukesh and Ding Liren saw both players demonstrating incredible skill and resilience. Heading into the 14th and final game, the score was tied at 6.5 points each, with many experts, including Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand, predicting a likely draw. The tie would have forced the match into a tiebreak.
The turning point came on Ding Liren’s 55th move, where a critical blunder allowed Gukesh to seize the advantage. With no recovery in sight, Ding conceded, securing Gukesh’s place in history.
With his win, Gukesh shattered the record for the youngest World Chess Champion, previously held by iconic players Garry Kasparov and Magnus Carlsen, both of whom claimed the title at 22 years old.
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