Gukesh's victory not only highlights his extraordinary talent but also underscores the strong chess community in India that supported his rise to the top. As the youngest world champion ever, he reflects on the hard work and backing that have shaped his journey, while aspiring to further success in the chess world and beyond.
Gukesh Dommaraju Crowned Youngest Chess Champion in History
Gukesh Dommaraju Crowned Youngest Chess Champion in History
At just 18 years old, Indian prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju has made history by winning the FIDE World Chess Championship, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in a nail-biting matchup.
In a stunning display of skill, the Indian teenager Gukesh Dommaraju has made headlines by becoming the youngest chess champion in the world at just 18 years old. Born in Chennai, Gukesh triumphed over China's defending champion, Ding Liren, during an electrifying match held in Singapore that ended with a $2.5 million prize fund on the line. This achievement marks a significant milestone in an already impressive career with Gukesh becoming a grandmaster at the age of 12 years and seven months.
Gukesh’s passion for chess sparked at the age of seven when he witnessed a World Title match featuring renowned players Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen in 2013. Although he dreamed of becoming a world champion, Gukesh admitted he did not expect to attain that goal so swiftly. “Throughout the match I had several chances to clinch victories... but I was getting nervous,” he told the BBC post-victory.
As the 18th world champion since Wilhelm Steinitz's inaugural title match in 1886, Gukesh shattered the previous record held by Garry Kasparov, who was 22 when he won his first title in 1985. The final match consisted of 14 games, culminating in a decisive play where Ding made a critical error, enabling Gukesh to seize the moment and claim his title.
His journey to this pinnacle has included notable achievements, such as earning individual gold medals at recent Olympiads and leading India to both bronze and gold medals at major international tournaments. Gukesh's resilience was evident when he faced setbacks earlier in his career, including a significant loss, yet he rebounded to secure his place in history by winning the Candidates tournament.
Despite being celebrated as an extraordinary talent, Gukesh’s success is representative of the robust chess ecosystem in India. With over 85 grandmasters nurtured by a supportive chess community and established mentors like Anand, Gukesh has steadily climbed the ranks since turning pro at the age of 10.
The young chess star credits his supportive family for his rise, with both parents making sacrifices to aid his career. Gukesh, whose interests extend beyond chess to sports and mindfulness practices, remains focused on his passion, aspiring to not only maintain his status but to eventually become the number one player globally.
As Gukesh contemplates his next steps, the chess world watches closely. His story serves as a compelling reminder of the dedication and collaborative support found within the chess community, paving the way for future generations of players.
Gukesh’s passion for chess sparked at the age of seven when he witnessed a World Title match featuring renowned players Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen in 2013. Although he dreamed of becoming a world champion, Gukesh admitted he did not expect to attain that goal so swiftly. “Throughout the match I had several chances to clinch victories... but I was getting nervous,” he told the BBC post-victory.
As the 18th world champion since Wilhelm Steinitz's inaugural title match in 1886, Gukesh shattered the previous record held by Garry Kasparov, who was 22 when he won his first title in 1985. The final match consisted of 14 games, culminating in a decisive play where Ding made a critical error, enabling Gukesh to seize the moment and claim his title.
His journey to this pinnacle has included notable achievements, such as earning individual gold medals at recent Olympiads and leading India to both bronze and gold medals at major international tournaments. Gukesh's resilience was evident when he faced setbacks earlier in his career, including a significant loss, yet he rebounded to secure his place in history by winning the Candidates tournament.
Despite being celebrated as an extraordinary talent, Gukesh’s success is representative of the robust chess ecosystem in India. With over 85 grandmasters nurtured by a supportive chess community and established mentors like Anand, Gukesh has steadily climbed the ranks since turning pro at the age of 10.
The young chess star credits his supportive family for his rise, with both parents making sacrifices to aid his career. Gukesh, whose interests extend beyond chess to sports and mindfulness practices, remains focused on his passion, aspiring to not only maintain his status but to eventually become the number one player globally.
As Gukesh contemplates his next steps, the chess world watches closely. His story serves as a compelling reminder of the dedication and collaborative support found within the chess community, paving the way for future generations of players.
