Singapore, December 13:
At just 18 years, six months, and two weeks, Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dammaraju has made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion. Gukesh secured the title by defeating China’s Ding Liren, the reigning champion, in the 14th and final game of the world championship match held in Singapore on Thursday.
Historic and exemplary!
Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work and unwavering determination.
His triumph has not only etched his name in the annals of chess history but has also inspired millions… https://t.co/fOqqPZLQlr pic.twitter.com/Xa1kPaiHdg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2024
The official coronation will take place at a ceremony scheduled for Friday.
Gukesh’s victory in the grueling 14-game classical format series came with a score of 7.5 points, surpassing Ding’s 6.5. This remarkable achievement marks the realization of a lifelong dream for the young grandmaster, who has been passionate about bringing the prestigious chess title back to India.
As a seven-year-old in 2013, Gukesh watched Viswanathan Anand, India’s first world chess champion, lose the title to Magnus Carlsen of Norway in a dramatic match held in Chennai. Today, Gukesh has achieved what he once admired, etching his name into chess history and making his country proud.