Indian Gukesh Becomes Youngest Chess World Champion

Indian chess player Dommaraju Gukesh, aged 18, has become the youngest player to win the Chess World Championship title, after defeating the reigning champion, China’s Ding Liren, on Thursday.

While the two players were tied before the 14th round, which seemed set to end in a draw, the Indian took advantage of a critical mistake by his opponent on move 55, gaining a decisive advantage and forcing Ding to resign.

Gukesh becomes the second Indian to win the most prestigious title in chess, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who was a five-time World Champion.

Tears welled up in Gukesh’s eyes, and he buried his face in his hands when he realized he had become the new world champion.

By winning the title at this age, Gukesh surpassed Russian Garry Kasparov, who first won the title at 22.

The match, held in Singapore, was close until the end, but Ding, 32, made errors that cost him the title he had won in April 2023. Since then, his appearances have decreased, and his performance has declined.

In a gracious gesture after his victory, Gukesh praised Ding, saying, “He fought like a true champion.”

Gukesh didn’t miss the opportunity to continue his rapid rise in the chess world. He was a favorite to win the title after his unexpected victory at the Candidates Tournament in April 2024, and he continued to improve, delivering an outstanding performance during the Chess Olympiad in September, which India won.