Gukesh Dommaraju made history on Thursday by becoming the youngest world chess champion after defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in a thrilling encounter at the World Chess Championship held in Singapore. The 18-year-old prodigy claimed victory with a score of 7.5 to 6.5 in a high-stakes Game 14 of classical chess, along with a prize of $2.5 million.
Gukesh, who was the second-youngest grandmaster in history at the age of 12, represents a new generation of Indian talent in chess, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, who broke the long-standing Russian dominance in the sport by winning the championship in 2007. Gukesh has often cited Anand as both his inspiration and role model.
The intense final match was set against a backdrop of suspense, especially after a close Game 13, where Ding and Gukesh ended in a draw, tying them at 6.5 points each. Gukesh remarked on the excitement of the final match, acknowledging the fighting spirit and entertaining chess displayed by both players. Analysts noted a critical miscalculation by Ding in the final game, which played a significant role in Gukesh’s emergence as champion. In a moment of humility, Gukesh stated, “We all know who Ding is — he has been one of the best players in history for several years. For me, he is the real World Champion.”
The achievement prompted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to praise Gukesh’s win as “historic and exemplary,” emphasizing that Gukesh has not only made his mark in chess history but has also inspired countless young individuals to pursue their aspirations with dedication and excellence.
This year’s tournament had a unique atmosphere since it excluded Russian players, a rarity given their historical dominance in chess. Additionally, the beloved figure of Magnus Carlsen was absent as well. Carlsen, often referred to as the greatest of all time, vacated his title in 2022 due to a lack of motivation, leaving a significant void in the competitive landscape.
While the championship was a remarkable event, Gukesh’s triumph symbolizes a hopeful turning point for chess, showcasing a diverse and vibrant future in the game that is poised for emerging talents.
Summary: Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest world chess champion by defeating Ding Liren in a dramatic final match, marking a significant milestone for Indian chess. His victory has inspired many young aspiring players globally, while also bridging a new era in the sport following the absence of long-standing champions.