At just 18 years old, Gukesh Dommaraju has made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion ever, surpassing the record previously held by Garry Kasparov, who achieved the title at age 22 in 1985. Dommaraju claimed the prestigious title by defeating China’s reigning champion, Ding Liren, during a tense match in Singapore.
The match, which took place on a Thursday, showcased an impressive display of skill from both players, with the International Chess Federation highlighting “near-perfect accuracy.” However, the tide turned when Ding made a pivotal mistake in an attempt to force a draw by sacrificing a rook. Upon realizing this blunder, Ding expressed his disbelief and reflected on the tournament, indicating he had played some of his best chess despite the unfortunate outcome.
As the match reached its climax, Dommaraju could be seen experiencing a mix of emotions, realizing he had an unexpected opportunity for victory. His joy was palpable as he was finally crowned champion, covering his face with his hands and being overwhelmed by the support of congratulating fans.
In his victory speech, Dommaraju shared the emotional weight of this achievement, having dreamed about this moment for over a decade. He praised Ding Liren, recognizing him as a formidable player and a true champion, and emphasized the admiration he has for his opponent’s contributions to the sport.
This remarkable achievement not only cements Dommaraju’s place in chess history but also inspires the next generation of chess players, proving that with dedication and talent, young minds can achieve extraordinary feats against seasoned champions.
The future of chess looks bright with prodigies like Dommaraju leading the charge, instilling hope and excitement within the global chess community.