Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from India, has become the youngest world chess champion in history, surpassing Garry Kasparov's record. He clinched the title after defeating China's Ding Liren in a dramatic final match of the 2024 FIDE World Championship in Singapore. The match concluded with a score of 7.5-6.5 in favor of Gukesh, following a critical error by Ding in the 14th game.
In a historic victory that has reshaped the landscape of international chess, Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old from India, has claimed the title of the youngest world chess champion, breaking a record previously held by Garry Kasparov. Gukesh's triumph over Ding Liren in the 2024 FIDE World Championship not only marks a significant personal achievement but also signals a shift in global chess dynamics.
Gukesh Dommaraju's victory came after a tense and closely fought series of games against Ding Liren, culminating in a decisive error by Ding in the 14th game. This error allowed Gukesh to secure the championship with a final score of 7.5-6.5. Gukesh's win is not just a personal milestone but also a continuation of India's rising dominance in the world of chess, a trend started by Viswanathan Anand in 2007.
The final game of the championship was a nerve-wracking affair, with both players displaying nearly perfect gameplay until Ding Liren's crucial mistake. Gukesh capitalized on this error, a misjudged rook exchange, to clinch the victory. This game was not just a test of skill but also of psychological endurance, showcasing Gukesh's ability to maintain composure under pressure and seize opportunities.
The victory has been met with widespread acclaim, with figures from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to previous world champion Viswanathan Anand praising Gukesh's performance and resilience. Gukesh's win not only places him at the pinnacle of world chess but also sets a high bar for future competitions, where he aims to maintain his position and build on his success.
Gukesh Dommaraju's ascent to the top of world chess as the youngest champion ever is not just a remarkable personal achievement but also a testament to the growing influence of Indian chess on the global stage. His victory is a beacon of inspiration for young chess players worldwide and a sign of the shifting dynamics in the international chess community.
"Since the time I started playing chess … I've been dreaming about living this moment for more than 10 years. Every chess player wants to experience this moment, and very few get the chance." - Gukesh Dommaraju
"I probably got so emotional because I did not really expect to win that position." - Gukesh Dommaraju
"I was totally in shock when I realized I made the blunder." - Ding Liren