(Pic: International Chess Federation (FIDE)/X)
Indian Grandmaster Gukesh D has etched his place in history as he became the youngest world chess champion at 18 years after beating title-holder Ding Liren of China in the 14th and last game of a roller-coaster showdown that went right down to the wire.
Gukesh secured the requisite 7.5 points as against 6.5 of Liren after winning the last classical time control game of the 14-game match that seemed headed for a draw for most part. As title winner, he will get a major share of the USD 2.5 million prize purse.
“I was dreaming this moment for the last 10 years. I am happy that I realised the dream (and made it) into reality,” the soft-spoken Chennai-lad told reporters after the historic triumph in Singapore.
“I got a bit emotional because I was not expecting to win. But then I got a chance to press on,” he added.
The reticent teenager grinned widely and raised his arms in celebration after the triumph, a stark contrast from the poker face he usually sports while playing.
Before Gukesh’s feat , the legendary Garry Kasparov of Russia was the youngest world champion when he won the title at the age of 22, dethroning Anatoly Karpov in 1985.
Soon after his stunning win, Congratulations flooded X :
Droupadi Murmu, President of India
Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud. His victory stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse.
Well done Gukesh! On behalf of every Indian, I wish you sustained glory…— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 12, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
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
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin
Congratulations to @DGukesh on becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion at 18!
Your remarkable achievement continues India’s rich chess legacy and helps Chennai reaffirm its place as the global Chess Capital by producing yet another world-class champion.
Tamil Nadu is… pic.twitter.com/pQvyyRcmA1
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) December 12, 2024
Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress president
Many congratulations to the phenomenal 18-year-old Gukesh D for becoming the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess champion!
Your dedication, perseverance, and passion for chess have truly paid off, making India immensely proud. 🇮🇳
May this incredible milestone propel you… pic.twitter.com/jUlBSMaqfR
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 12, 2024
Rahul Gandhi, Leader Of Opposition, Lok Sabha
Gukesh, you’ve made all of India proud! At just 18, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion is a phenomenal achievement.
Your passion and hard work remind us that with determination, anything is possible. Congratulations, champ! pic.twitter.com/wcK4YZmVB9
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 12, 2024
Viswanathan Anand, Indian Chess Icon
Congratulations! It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, a proud moment for WACA, and for me, a very personal moment of pride. Ding played a very exciting match and showed the champion he is.@FIDE_chess @WacaChess pic.twitter.com/o3hq26JFPf
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) December 12, 2024
