Gukesh's remarkable journey has been bolstered by extensive support from his family, mentors, and India's robust chess infrastructure, propelling him to this historic win, which marks a significant milestone in his career.
Indian Teen Gukesh Dommaraju Crowned Youngest Chess Champion in History
Indian Teen Gukesh Dommaraju Crowned Youngest Chess Champion in History
Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from India, stunned the chess community by defeating reigning champion Ding Liren to become the youngest world champion.
In a breathtaking display of skill and composure, Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from India, captured the title of the world's youngest chess champion, dethroning reigning champion Ding Liren in a match held in Singapore. The Chennai native, who became a grandmaster at just 12 years old, has long aspired to be crowned the world's best, a dream he first conceived while watching a World Title match in 2013.
Gukesh's phenomenal rise to the top is studded with achievements, including gold medals at recent FIDE Chess Olympiads and his victory in the Candidates tournament that allowed him a shot at Liren. His title match was intense, ultimately culminating in a critical blunder by Liren during the 14th game, a moment Gukesh seized to clinch the championship.
This win not only makes Gukesh the new world champion but also the youngest player to ever hold this title, surpassing the record set by Garry Kasparov in the 1980s. Over the years, Gukesh has shown resilience, overcoming setbacks in his journey, including a notable mid-tournament loss that he converted into a path for victory.
With widespread support from India's chess community and his family—whose sacrifices underscored his early training—Gukesh's success highlights the country's thriving chess culture, which boasts over 85 grandmasters and a vigorous pool of tournament players. His mentors, including five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, have played pivotal roles in nurturing his talent and strategy.
Gukesh's prowess also extends beyond the chessboard; he enjoys swimming, tennis, and meditation, emphasizing a balanced lifestyle. His aspirations remain high as he aims to establish a long career in the sport and ultimately unseat current world number one, Magnus Carlsen. This championship title is but a stepping stone in Gukesh's pursuit of greatness, marking a historic chapter in the annals of chess history.
