Gukesh Dommaraju made history on Thursday by becoming the youngest world chess champion, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in a thrilling final match of the World Chess Championship held in Singapore. At just 18 years old, Gukesh secured a remarkable victory with a score of 7.5-6.5 after an intense Game 14 of classical chess, earning the winner’s purse of $2.5 million.
This triumph marks a significant milestone for Indian chess, positioning Gukesh as a part of the new generation of talents. He has often expressed admiration for Viswanathan Anand, the first Indian to win the world title in 2007, who inspired countless chess players in the country.
The match reached a decisive climax after both players entered Game 14 tied at 6.5 points. The drama intensified as Gukesh’s impressive performance in Game 13 put Ding under severe pressure, leaving him nearly ready to concede defeat. However, Ding managed to hold the game to a draw, extending the competition to the final match.
Gukesh praised the fighting spirit of both players in the post-game conference, reflecting on the excitement they brought to the tournament. Analysts noted a critical misstep by Ding in Game 14 that ultimately led to Gukesh’s victory. Gukesh humbly acknowledged Ding’s status in the chess world, calling him the “real world champion.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Gukesh’s win as a “historic and exemplary” achievement, highlighting how the young champion not only secured his place in chess history but also inspired millions to chase their dreams.
This year’s championship was notably different, marked by the absence of Russian players who have long dominated chess, and the notable absence of Magnus Carlsen from the finals. Carlsen, who relinquished his title in 2022, has been a prominent figure in the sport but stepped back, leaving a significant void. Even though the championship faced challenges, the ascent of new talents like Gukesh signifies a bright future for chess, inspiring a new generation of players.
In summary, Gukesh’s victory is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of hope for aspiring chess players, affirming that dedication, talent, and passion can lead to breaking barriers and making history in any field.