Indian teen makes history as world chess champion

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Indian teenager Gukesh Dommaraju has made history as the youngest-ever world chess champion.

On 12 December 2024, the 18-year-old defeated China’s Ding Liren in a dramatic final at the FIDE World Chess Championship in Singapore.

THE YOUNGEST WORLD CHESS CHAMPION

This victory places Gukesh ahead of Russian legend Garry Kasparov, who won his title at the age of 22 in 1985, according to BBC.

The Chennai-born prodigy has cemented his place in chess history as one of the game’s youngest and most talented players.

Despite his young age, Gukesh’s journey to the top has been anything but easy.

He became a grandmaster at just 12 years old, the third-youngest in history.

His rise through the chess ranks has been fuelled by dedication and an unrelenting passion for the game.

THE WORLD CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP

However, going into the final game, he was still seen as the underdog.

The championship match, spread across 14 games, kept fans on edge for two weeks.

Gukesh and Ding were tied with eight draws and two wins each as they entered the final round. The title was anyone’s to claim.

On Thursday, Gukesh played with black pieces, a position traditionally considered more defensive.

Ding appeared poised to win, holding a solid position for much of the four-hour battle, according to The Week.

A CLOSE MATCH IN THE WORLD CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP

But on the 55th move, he made a costly mistake. His blunder allowed Gukesh to seize control, leaving the Chinese grandmaster visibly devastated.

“Ding seemed to have a risk-free chance to push for a win, but instead liquidated into a pawn-down endgame,” Chess.com noted.

“The match should have ended in a draw, but Ding blundered under pressure.”

Gukesh, shocked by his unexpected win, broke down in tears, according to The Guardian.

“I probably got so emotional because I did not really expect to win that position,” he said. The crowd erupted into cheers as the young grandmaster’s victory became official.

GUKESH IS THE YOUNGEST WORLD CHESS CHAMPION

At just 18, Gukesh becomes only the second Indian player to hold the world champion title.

He follows in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, who dominated the chess world with five championship titles, the last of which he won in 2012.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the congratulations, posting on social media.

“Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment.

This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work, and unwavering determination.”

THE DEFENDING CHAMPION

Ding, the defending champion, has faced challenges this year.

He spoke openly about struggles with depression and took a break from chess before returning for this championship.

While his stylish wins in earlier rounds showcased his brilliance, the final match proved too much.

Gukesh’s achievement is not only a milestone for India but also for global chess.

AN INSPIRATION

South Africans, too, can take inspiration from his story. Like many in sports, his journey shows that talent, hard work, and resilience can break barriers.

The championship carried a prize fund of $2.5 million, equivalent to approximately R48.1 million. Gukesh’s win is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for chess.

As the young champion said, “It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, and for me, a very personal moment of pride.”