On December 12, 2024, Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion at the age of 18. The remarkable achievement took place in Singapore, where Gukesh defeated reigning champion Ding Liren of China with a score of 7.5-6.5. This victory not only broke the record set by the legendary Garry Kasparov in 1985, who claimed the title at the age of 22 but also established Gukesh as the second Indian to achieve this honor, after the iconic Viswanathan Anand.
The Road to Victory
The championship match between Gukesh and Ding Liren was a thrilling encounter that tested both skill and endurance. Gukesh faced a challenging start, losing the first game. However, his resilience shone through as he bounced back to level the score at 6.5-6.5 after 13 intense games. The final and deciding 14th game was poised for a draw, setting the stage for an edge-of-the-seat tie-break.
In a dramatic twist, Ding Liren made a critical blunder on his 53rd move, handing Gukesh a decisive advantage. Seizing the opportunity with confidence and composure, Gukesh capitalized on the mistake and clinched the championship, making history in the process.
The Emotional Closing Ceremony
During the closing ceremony on December 13, Gukesh’s joy was evident as he proudly received the coveted trophy. His mother, J Padmakumari, was present at the ceremony, radiating pride and happiness. In a heartwarming moment, Gukesh passed the trophy to his mother, a gesture that underscored his deep gratitude for her unwavering support throughout his journey.
D Gukesh had earlier expressed his determination to wait until the closing ceremony before touching the trophy. He said, “Seeing it up close for the first time… I don’t want to touch it; I want to lift it at the closing ceremony!” This showed his profound respect for both the title and the game of chess.
A Dream Realized
D Gukesh’s journey to the world championship was fueled by a dream he harbored since 2013. That year, Magnus Carlsen dethroned Viswanathan Anand in Chennai, a moment that inspired Gukesh to reclaim the title for India. Reflecting on this dream during the press conference, Gukesh shared:
“When Magnus won, I dreamed of being the one to bring the title back to India. For over 10 years, this has been the most important goal of my life. Achieving this for myself, my family, and my country is the greatest feeling I could ask for.”
Legacy and Impact
D Gukesh’s victory is a monumental achievement for Indian chess. Following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, who brought India its first world title, Gukesh’s triumph represents a new generation of Indian chess brilliance. His success has further solidified India’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in the world of chess.
The young champion’s story is one of relentless dedication, strategic brilliance, and an unbreakable spirit. His ability to recover from setbacks during the championship and his commitment to excellence set him apart as a true champion.
The Magnus Carlsen Connection
Gukesh’s ambition also included facing Magnus Carlsen, widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. However, Carlsen recently announced that he does not plan to participate in future World Chess Championships. This decision means that, for now, a face-off between the young champion and Carlsen remains a dream for chess enthusiasts. Nonetheless, Gukesh’s victory stands on its merit and is a testament to his skill and determination.
A Bright Future for Indian Chess
D Gukesh’s triumph has ignited excitement and hope for the future of Indian chess. His victory has inspired young players across the country, proving that with dedication, passion, and hard work, achieving greatness is possible. Chess academies, fans, and aspiring players now look up to Gukesh as a beacon of success and a symbol of India’s growing dominance on the international chess stage.
Conclusion
D Gukesh’s historic win as the youngest World Chess Champion marks a new chapter in the annals of chess history. His remarkable journey, from a determined child inspired by Viswanathan Anand’s legacy to a world champion, is a story of ambition, perseverance, and excellence. By bringing the title back to India, Gukesh has fulfilled a decade-long dream and cemented his place among the chess greats.
