17-Year-Old Gukesh D Wins FIDE Candidates in Toronto, Becomes Youngest World Chess Challenger

Apr 22, 2024, 12:52 AM

In a historic achievement at the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament in Toronto, Canada, 17-year-old Indian chess prodigy Gukesh D emerged as the youngest-ever player to win the tournament. Gukesh secured his victory with a draw against Hikaru Nakamura in the final round, concluding the tournament with a score of 9/14 and a live rating of 2762.8. This win grants him the right to challenge the reigning World Champion, Ding Liren, for the title. The final round was crucial as Gukesh was leading with 8.5 points, closely followed by Nakamura, Ian Nepomniachtchi, and Fabiano Caruana, all at 8 points. The tournament was noted for its competitive intensity, with Gukesh showcasing resilience and strategic acumen, particularly highlighted in his pivotal game against Alireza Firouzja.