In a groundbreaking moment for chess, 18-year-old Indian prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju etched his name into the annals of history as the youngest-ever world chess champion. On December 12, 2024, Gukesh stunned fans and experts alike by defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a nail-biting finale at the FIDE World Chess Championship in Singapore.
The Chennai-born grandmaster surpassed the record set by Russian legend Garry Kasparov, who claimed his title at 22 in 1985. Gukesh’s triumph not only cements his position as one of the most talented players in the game but also highlights his meteoric rise from a grandmaster at age 12 to global champion.
The championship, spanning 14 tense games over two weeks, showcased Gukesh’s resilience. Tied with eight draws and two wins each, the final match saw Gukesh, playing with the black pieces, overcome a seemingly dominant Ding. A critical error by Ding on the 55th move turned the tide, allowing Gukesh to claim victory in dramatic fashion.
“I did not expect to win that position,” Gukesh admitted, overwhelmed with emotion as the crowd erupted in applause. His victory marks a proud moment for India, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, the country’s only other world champion.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Gukesh’s achievement as “historic and exemplary,” celebrating his talent and determination. The win also carries global significance, inspiring chess enthusiasts worldwide with its message of perseverance and skill.
The $2.5 million prize not only underscores Gukesh’s personal triumph but also marks a monumental milestone for chess and sports alike.
Source: African Publicity
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