Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju has made headlines around the world as he became the youngest world champion at just 18 years of age. The Chennai-born player achieved this remarkable feat by defeating defending champion Ding Liren of China in a thrilling championship match held in Singapore. The FIDE World Chess Championship, which boasts a prize fund of $2.5 million, marks a significant milestone in Gukesh’s already illustrious career.
Gukesh became a grandmaster at the tender age of 12, and his ambition to become world champion began when he was just seven, while watching a title match between chess legends Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen in 2013. Despite his initial doubts about achieving this dream at such a young age, Gukesh excelled under pressure, navigating multiple high-stakes moments on his way to victory.
The championship match was intense, with the score tied at two wins each after 13 games. In a pivotal 14th game that initially seemed destined for a draw, Ding blundered on move 55, allowing Gukesh to capitalize on the error and secure his place in chess history.
Gukesh’s journey to this pinnacle has seen him achieve remarkable success in recent years. He has earned individual gold medals in the last two Olympiads, played a key role in India’s team bronze medal win in 2022, and led the team to gold in Budapest in 2024. His triumph in the Candidates Tournament secured him the opportunity to compete against Ding Liren for the title.
While some initially doubted his experience, Gukesh’s resilience shone through after he bounced back from setbacks during the tournament. His support system, including his mentor Viswanathan Anand and well-established chess community in India, has been crucial to his success. With over 85 grandmasters and a vast network of officially rated players in the country, India has cultivated a robust chess ecosystem.
Gukesh’s story is further enriched by the dedication of his parents, both accomplished doctors, who have prioritized his chess career. Their commitment has fueled his passion for the game, which he found an interest in during a school summer camp.
As Gukesh enjoys this historic victory, his achievements also highlight the strength and potential of India’s chess scene, inspiring aspiring players across the nation.
This victory showcases not only Gukesh’s immense talent but also the solid foundation of support from both his family and the chess community in India. It is a hopeful reminder that with determination and the right support, dreams can become a reality sooner than expected.