Gukesh in World Chess Champion
Indian chess sensation Gukesh Dommaraju has achieved what many thought impossible, becoming the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess world champion at just 18. His groundbreaking victory came after a grueling 14-game match against defending champion Ding Liren in Singapore. Tied at 6.5 points each heading into the final game, Gukesh capitalized on a late blunder by Ding to claim the decisive point and secure the title. This victory marks India’s return to the top of the chess world, a feat last achieved by Viswanathan Anand in 2012.
Gukesh’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Born in Chennai, he started playing chess at seven and quickly demonstrated prodigious talent. By 12, he had already earned the title of Grandmaster, becoming one of the youngest in the world to do so. His meteoric rise continued, with stellar performances in international tournaments leading to his qualification for the 2024 Candidates Tournament, which he won to secure a spot in the World Championship. Reflecting on his victory, Gukesh described it as the culmination of more than a decade of hard work and a moment he had dreamt of since childhood.
The victory sparked joyous celebrations across India. Social media was flooded with messages of pride and congratulations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the achievement as a “historic and exemplary” milestone that would inspire countless young minds to aim for greatness. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar lauded Gukesh for opening new horizons for Indian sports, while Viswanathan Anand expressed deep personal pride in seeing the world title return to India. Gukesh’s triumph is being celebrated as a defining moment in the country’s sporting history.
This win also underscores India’s emergence as a global chess powerhouse. Gukesh is part of a new generation of Indian players who have been making waves internationally. His victory is a beacon of hope for young chess enthusiasts, signaling that India is poised to dominate the world stage. As Gukesh embarks on the next chapter of his career, his inspiring story continues to captivate and motivate aspiring players, cementing his place as a national hero and a global chess icon.
