Eleven years ago, a seven-year-old chess prodigy, Gukesh Dommaraju, watched his idol, Viswanathan Anand, lose the world chess title to Magnus Carlsen. That moment sparked a dream in the young boy — to bring the title back to India. Now, Gukesh achieved that dream in Singapore, defeating defending champion Ding Liren of China in the final game of their 14-round classical format match, securing a 7.5-6.5 victory.
At just 18 years, Gukesh became the youngest chess world champion in history, breaking the record held by Garry Kasparov, who won at 22 in 1985. Gukesh is now the 18th world champion in a lineage dating back to Wilhelm Steinitz in 1886. His triumph also marked a first in chess history — winning three major tournaments in a single calendar year: the Candidates Tournament, Chess Olympiad and World Championship.
This victory holds significant weight as it symbolises India’s biggest triumph over China in a globally competitive game like chess. “The dream began in 2013 when I watched Vishy sir lose to Carlsen,” Gukesh said. “I wanted to bring the title back and play in the glass box. Today, that dream is a reality.”
In a dramatic final game, Gukesh maintained pressure on Ding, who faltered with a critical blunder in the endgame. Gukesh capitalised on the mistake, showcasing near-perfect accuracy with 99% correct moves compared to Ding’s 95.2%.
Overwhelmed by emotion, Gukesh wept as he reset the board, a nod to chess tradition. “Winning the World Championship doesn’t mean I’m the best,” he humbly remarked. “There’s still Magnus Carlsen. I aim to achieve his greatness.”
With this historic victory, Gukesh has etched his name in chess history and the hearts of millions, embodying grace, humility, and determination.
GukAce DommaRaja: Indian legend becomes youngest-ever world chess king
