At 18, Gukesh becomes world’s youngest chess champion

PrashantNews

Congratulatory messages on Thursday poured in for India’s 18 year old grandmaster Gukesh D who became the youngest world chess champion after he dethroned Ding Liren of China in the decisive Game 14 in Singapore.

Earlier, Garry Kasparov held the record at the age of 22 in 1985.

After winning the title, Gukesh said, “this has always been a big part of my dream, a very big part of it. It’s a huge step for me. I am very happy for that. But my goal has always been to be at the very top for the longest time possible. My career has just started. I want to play for long time,” Gukesh said.

On Liren, Gukesh said “he fought like a true champion, and I’m really sorry for Ding and his team. I would like to thank my opponent first – this could not have been the same without him.”

After the shock defeat, Liren said, “It took me a while to realised I blundered.” “I think I played my best tournament in the year. I could be better, but considering yesterday’s luck, it’s a fair result to lose in the end. I have no regrets,” he said.

International Chess Federation was the first to congratulate Gukesh. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Gukesh for his unique feat. “Gukesh has done India immensely proud,” Murmu said on X.

The PM said “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 first individual Olympic Gold winner Abhinav Bindra said “your brilliance, determination, and grace under pressure have made the entire nation proud. You’ve not just won a title but inspired generations to dream big,” Bindra said in his congratulatory message.