Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old grandmaster from Chennai, has made history as the youngest-ever classical chess world champion after defeating defending champion Ding Liren in a dramatic Game 14 of the 2024 FIDE World Championship.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to congratulate the teenager, calling his victory “historic and exemplary” and a testament to Gukesh’s “unparalleled talent, hard work, and determination.”
“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.”
The final match, held at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, lasted 58 moves and over four hours. The best-of-14 series was tied 6.5-6.5 heading into the final game, but Gukesh capitalised on a catastrophic blunder by Ding, clinching a 7.5-6.5 victory. The decisive moment came on move 55, when Ding’s rook move (Rf2) led to an inescapable trap, prompting the 32-year-old Chinese grandmaster to resign moments later.
Gukesh, visibly emotional, described the triumph as “probably the best moment of my life,” realising a childhood dream. His victory shattered Garry Kasparov’s long-standing record as the youngest world champion. Kasparov was 22 when he claimed the title in 1985. Gukesh also becomes only the second Indian world champion after Viswanathan Anand, who held the title from 2007 to 2013.
Mentored by Viswanathan Anand, Gukesh’s victory is a watershed moment for Indian chess. “It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India,” Anand said. Gukesh’s win also cements his place as a global ambassador for the sport, inspiring a new generation of players.
Born to a doctor father and microbiologist mother, Gukesh began playing chess at age seven. He became India’s youngest grandmaster at 12 years and seven months and rose to prominence after winning the Candidates Tournament in April, earning his place in the championship.
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