Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Chess Champion at 18, Surpassing Kasparov's Record in Win Over Ding Liren

Dec 12, 2024, 01:07 PM

Indian chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh has become the youngest-ever undisputed World Chess Champion at the age of 18, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a dramatic Game 14 on December 12, 2024, at the 2024 FIDE World Championship held in Singapore. Gukesh capitalized on a crucial blunder by Ding in the final classical game to clinch the title, surpassing Garry Kasparov's record as the youngest champion, which had stood since 1985 when Kasparov won at age 22. The match was closely contested, with both players entering the final game tied, and Gukesh's victory marks a historic moment for Indian chess as he becomes the country's second World Champion after Viswanathan Anand and the 18th champion overall.