In a historic triumph, 18-year-old chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh has etched his name in the annals of chess by becoming the youngest world champion ever. On a nail-biting evening in Singapore, Gukesh dethroned reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the 14th game of the World Chess Championship, turning a seemingly drawn position into a decisive victory. This monumental feat not only makes Gukesh the first teenager to win the crown but also ends Garry Kasparov’s record of becoming champion at 22.
But this victory is more than just a title—it’s the return of the chess crown to India, the land where the game originated, after Magnus Carlsen claimed it from Viswanathan Anand in 2013. Gukesh’s journey to this point is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and the promise of a bright future for Indian chess.
Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai to Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon, and Padma, a microbiologist, Gukesh displayed a penchant for chess at the tender age of seven. His early days were marked by rigorous practice sessions and weekend tournaments. Encouraged by his school, Velammal Vidyalaya, and his parents, Gukesh began conquering youth championships, announcing his arrival on the chess scene with unparalleled dominance.
In 2019, at just 12 years and 7 months, he became the second-youngest Grandmaster in history—a record now surpassed, placing him as the third-youngest. But Gukesh wasn’t just breaking records; he was building a legacy.
Gukesh’s meteoric rise continued with consistent performances on the global stage. At the 2022 Chess Olympiad, he stunned the world by defeating top-seeded players like Fabiano Caruana, earning an individual gold medal on the first board. By 2023, he had surpassed the legendary Viswanathan Anand to become India’s highest-rated player, marking a seismic shift in Indian chess.
In 2024, Gukesh’s participation in the Candidates Tournament was another milestone. He emerged victorious, becoming the youngest ever to win this prestigious event. His victories against elite players like Alireza Firouzja and Praggnanandhaa cemented his place as the rightful challenger for the world title.
Facing Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship was no small feat. Ding, known for his calm demeanor and strategic depth, was the favorite heading into rapid tiebreaks. However, Gukesh’s tactical brilliance and mental fortitude turned the tide.
The pivotal moment came in the 14th game, with both players locked in an intense endgame. Gukesh, playing with the black pieces, showcased nerves of steel and uncanny precision. Ding faltered under pressure, making a critical blunder with a rook move. Gukesh seized the opportunity, delivering a decisive blow that left the chess world in awe.
As the dust settled, Gukesh’s emotions overflowed. He bowed to the chessboard in reverence and rearranged the pieces—a gesture reflecting his respect for the game and his opponent.
Gukesh’s victory heralds a new era for Indian chess. Following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, who first brought the world championship to India in 2000, Gukesh has reignited the country’s passion for the sport. His triumph also underscores the rising dominance of young Indian players like Praggnanandhaa and Nihal Sarin, who are making waves internationally.
In a post-match press conference, Gukesh humbly acknowledged the magnitude of his achievement. “Being the champion doesn’t mean I’m the best player in the world,” he said, referring to Magnus Carlsen, who chose not to defend his title. “It motivates me to keep improving and working hard.”
As the youngest world champion in history, Gukesh now shoulders the responsibility of being a global ambassador for chess. His sights are set on continued dominance and perhaps even challenging Magnus Carlsen, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, in future encounters.
For now, India celebrates the rise of its new chess king—a prodigy who has not only rewritten the record books but also inspired a generation to dream big. The chessboard has a new monarch, and his name is Dommaraju Gukesh.
