Gukesh Dommaraju, 18, from India, has clinched the title of World Chess Champion, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in the final game of the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship on December 12, 2024.
The victory makes Gukesh the youngest person ever to claim the undisputed classical chess world championship crown, breaking the record held by Garry Kasparov since 1985.
Journey to the World Championship
The championship, held in Singapore, saw Gukesh and Ding Liren locked in a tense battle over 14 classical games. The match reached its climax with the score tied at 6.5-6.5, leading to a decisive Game 14, where Gukesh played with the black pieces. Demonstrating both strategic depth and mental fortitude, Gukesh managed to capitalize on a critical blunder from Ding, securing the win after 68 moves in what became an unforgettable final game.
Gukesh’s journey to the championship was marked by his performance at the Candidates Tournament earlier in the year, where he became the youngest winner at the age of 17, setting the stage for his challenge against Ding Liren.
Throughout the championship, Gukesh kept adapting his style from aggressive play to a more solid, defensive game when necessary, showcasing his versatility and chess acumen.
The match was a display of chess prowess and a testament to Gukesh’s preparation and psychological resilience. Working with renowned mental coach Paddy Upton, Gukesh had prepared for every conceivable scenario, including the intense pressure of playing in such a high-stakes environment. His ability to bounce back from setbacks, including a defeat in the first game, was praised by chess legends like Magnus Carlsen and Susan Polgar.
The victory has sent waves of excitement across India, with Gukesh being celebrated for his chess skills and symbolizing the resurgence of Indian chess on the world stage. His achievement follows in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, India’s first world chess champion, but adds a new chapter with Gukesh’s record-breaking age at the time of victory.
