Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Chess Champion at 18, Breaking Kasparov's Record with Win over Ding Liren

Dec 13, 2024, 10:39 AM

Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju, 18, became the youngest undisputed world chess champion on December 12, 2024, after defeating China's Ding Liren in Singapore. Gukesh's victory breaks Garry Kasparov's record, making him the youngest player ever to hold the title. He secured the championship with a 7.5-6.5 win in a 14-game match and earned prize money totaling $1.95 million (over Rs 11 crore). Gukesh credited his success in part to guidance from the coach behind India's 2011 Cricket World Cup win. At the closing ceremony, where the Indian national anthem was played, Gukesh expressed humility and ambition, stating, "Being the world champion doesn't mean I'm the best player in the world. Obviously, there's Magnus. I want to reach the level of greatness that Magnus has achieved!" He added that he got "not a single minute of sleep" the night after his victory. His mother, Padmakumari, said, "I couldn't believe it and I cried for 10 minutes." The All India Chess Federation president, Nitin Narang, praised Gukesh's remarkable focus and patience throughout the tournament. Gukesh's achievement is a significant milestone for Indian chess, and he expressed eagerness to challenge Magnus Carlsen.