D Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Chess Champion, Defeats Ding Liren in Historic Final

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh made history on Thursday, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion at just 18 years old. He defeated reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a thrilling 14th and final game of the World Chess Championship 2024, held in Singapore.

Gukesh clinched the decisive victory after a tense 58-move classical game that lasted over four hours, securing the required 7.5 points to Liren’s 6.5 in the series. The triumph not only earned him the world crown but also a significant share of the $2.5 million prize pool.

The reserved teenager, known for his composed demeanor, broke into a wide grin and raised his arms in celebration after achieving the milestone, a stark departure from his usual stoic expression during matches.

Breaking Records and Making History

Before Gukesh’s groundbreaking achievement, Russian legend Garry Kasparov held the record as the youngest world champion, winning the title at 22 in 1985. Gukesh’s victory dethrones this record, setting a new benchmark in chess history.

Gukesh is also the second Indian to claim the world chess title, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion who last held the title in 2013. Gukesh’s victory is seen as a continuation of India’s rich chess legacy, inspiring a new generation of players.

A Roller-Coaster Championship

The 14-game match was filled with intense competition and high drama. Gukesh entered the championship as the youngest-ever challenger after winning the prestigious Candidates Tournament earlier this year.

Throughout the series:

• Gukesh won the third, 11th, and decisive 14th games.
• Ding Liren claimed victories in the opening game and 12th game.
• The remaining games ended in draws.

Had the final game also ended in a draw, the winner would have been decided through shorter tie-break games on Friday.

Legacy and Future

Gukesh’s historic win marks him as the 18th World Chess Champion, securing India’s place on the global chess stage once again. With his youth and skill, Gukesh’s victory heralds the arrival of a new era in chess, promising exciting prospects for the future.

As the world celebrates Gukesh’s extraordinary achievement, his triumph not only cements his place among the chess greats but also serves as a testament to the potential of determination, skill, and perseverance.

Congratulations poured in from across the chess world and beyond, as fans and experts hailed the teenager’s stunning feat that rewrote history.