Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh made history on December 12 by becoming the youngest world chess champion at 18, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the 2024 World Chess Championship final in Singapore. Gukesh won with a score of 7.5 to Liren’s 6.5 after a four-hour match with 58 moves, making him only the second Indian to claim this title, following Viswanathan Anand. This victory not only earned him a share of the $2.5 million prize pool but also broke Garry Kasparov’s long-standing record as the youngest champion, who was 22 in 1985. Gukesh, born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, was encouraged by his parents, Dr. Rajinikanth and Dr. Padma, to pursue chess from a young age. His talent shone through in local competitions, leading to significant wins, including the Under-9 Asian School Chess Championship in 2015 and the Under-12 World Youth Chess Championship in 2018.
Gukesh became an International Master in March 2017 and the third-youngest Grandmaster in December 2019. The championship featured intense competition, with Gukesh initially leading after winning Games 3 and 11, while Liren won Games 1 and 12. The pivotal 14th game saw them tied, setting the stage for Gukesh’s historic win. In response to his remarkable victory, the usually reserved teenager displayed an unexpected smile and raised his arms in celebration, marking a significant moment in his career. This achievement not only elevates him to the ranks of the chess elite but also heralds a new chapter in Indian chess, as he emulates the legacy of his idol, Viswanathan Anand. With this triumph, Gukesh secures his position as the 18th world chess champion, a remarkable feat for an individual who was merely a year ago in the spotlight for setting records and challenging norms. His evolution from a curious young talent to a prominent figure in the global chess arena serves as a source of motivation for aspiring players around the world.
