India’s Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju has made history by becoming the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess world champion at the age of 18.
He defeated defending champion Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in their best-of-14 final match in Singapore on December 12.
Gukesh and Ding tied before the final game.
Gukesh seized the opportunity to claim the crucial point after Ding made a mistake. Gukesh was overcome with emotion as the victory was confirmed, breaking into tears, while Ding sat in stunned silence.
Gukesh’s triumph has earned him a $2.5 million cash prize. After celebrating his victory with his arms raised in triumph, Gukesh was escorted out of the building, where he shared a heartfelt embrace with his father.
In a post-match press conference, Gukesh admitted that he hadn’t initially recognized Ding’s mistake in the final game.
However, when he realized his Chinese opponent had made the crucial error, he exclaimed, “It was probably the best moment of my life.”
Gukesh’s journey to becoming a world chess champion began when he started playing chess at the age of six and a half.
He reflected on his journey, saying, “My journey, it’s been since the time I started playing chess… I’ve been dreaming about this moment for more than 10 years. Every chess player wants to experience this moment, and very few get the chance. To be one of them – I think the only way to explain it is I am living my dream.”
Gukesh expressed his gratitude to God and the people who have supported him throughout his journey. He said, “I would like to thank God first of all. This whole journey starting from qualifying to the (qualifying tournament) Candidates, then coming here, it could only be possible by God. There were so many miracles. And I’m thankful for all the people who have been by my side on this journey.”
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh on his historic achievement, writing on X, “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 of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence.”
India’s President Draupadi Murmu also praised Gukesh’s achievement, stating that his win “stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse.”
