On Thursday, Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old chess sensation from India, took the world by storm as he emerged victorious, claiming the title of the youngest chess champion in history. The crucial match unfolded in Singapore, where Gukesh faced off against defending champion Ding Liren from China, marking the climax of his remarkable ascent in the chess world.
Gukesh Dommaraju: The Youngest Chess Champion in History
Gukesh Dommaraju: The Youngest Chess Champion in History
Indian prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju makes history by becoming the world's youngest chess champion at just 18 years old.
Born in May 2006 in Chennai, Gukesh's journey began early when he became a grandmaster at just 12 years and 7 months old. Inspired by witnessing a World Title match between Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen at the tender age of seven, he openly expressed his aspirations for greatness in chess. Gukesh's win not only made him the youngest person to hold the world champion title, surpassing the previous record set by Garry Kasparov, but also highlighted his extraordinary talent in a sport rich with history.
The championship match was highly competitive, with both players evenly matched, each winning two games up to the 13th. However, in the decisive 14th game, a blunder from Ding Liren on move 55 allowed Gukesh to capitalize and clinch victory. This incredible triumph came after several notable achievements over the past three years, including individual gold medals at the FIDE Chess Olympiad and leading India to team victories.
Gukesh has expressed gratitude for the support he's received from his parents, mentors like Viswanathan Anand, and the robust chess community in India. With over 85 grandmasters in the country, Gukesh’s success is indicative of a thriving chess ecosystem that nurtures emerging talent. His parents have made significant sacrifices to support his chess career, and he continues to receive backing from sponsors, allowing him to pursue his dream full-time.
Outside of chess, Gukesh enjoys activities such as swimming and tennis, and he aims to be the best chess player in the world, aspiring to surpass current champion Magnus Carlsen. His recent victory, however monumental, is just one stop on his journey in the world of chess, as he looks to build a long and illustrious career in the sport.
The championship match was highly competitive, with both players evenly matched, each winning two games up to the 13th. However, in the decisive 14th game, a blunder from Ding Liren on move 55 allowed Gukesh to capitalize and clinch victory. This incredible triumph came after several notable achievements over the past three years, including individual gold medals at the FIDE Chess Olympiad and leading India to team victories.
Gukesh has expressed gratitude for the support he's received from his parents, mentors like Viswanathan Anand, and the robust chess community in India. With over 85 grandmasters in the country, Gukesh’s success is indicative of a thriving chess ecosystem that nurtures emerging talent. His parents have made significant sacrifices to support his chess career, and he continues to receive backing from sponsors, allowing him to pursue his dream full-time.
Outside of chess, Gukesh enjoys activities such as swimming and tennis, and he aims to be the best chess player in the world, aspiring to surpass current champion Magnus Carlsen. His recent victory, however monumental, is just one stop on his journey in the world of chess, as he looks to build a long and illustrious career in the sport.
