Teenager Gukesh Dommaraju has become the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess world champion after defeating Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in their best-of-14 final in Singapore on Thursday.
According to the Leaders team sources, the 18-year-old Gukesh and defending champion Ding entered the final game tied, seemingly heading for rapid chess tiebreaks. However, a critical blunder by Ding allowed Gukesh to secure the decisive point and claim the championship.
Overcome with emotion as his victory was confirmed, Gukesh broke into tears while Ding sat stunned, his head in his hands. Gukesh later celebrated with his father outside the venue, sharing a heartfelt embrace.
Back in India, fans celebrated Gukesh’s victory with joy and pride as he became the 18th world chess champion and only the second from India after Viswanathan Anand. Social media was abuzz with congratulatory messages, hailing the young champion for his historic achievement.
As per the sources of Leaders team, reflecting on his win, Gukesh admitted that he initially didn’t notice Ding’s decisive mistake in the final game but called the realization “the best moment of my life.” He shared his journey from starting chess at the age of six-and-a-half to achieving his lifelong dream of becoming world champion. Gukesh credited his success to hard work, perseverance, and divine blessings, describing the series of events leading to his triumph as miraculous.
India has established itself as a global chess powerhouse, producing numerous young talents, including Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, who made headlines in 2022 for defeating Magnus Carlsen. Praggnanandhaa and his sister, Rameshbabu Vaishali, have also earned acclaim as the first brother-sister duo to achieve grandmaster titles.
Messages of pride poured in from Indian leaders and sports icons alike. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Gukesh for inspiring millions, while President Draupadi Murmu lauded his achievement as a testament to India’s growing dominance in chess. Former world champion Viswanathan Anand and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar joined in celebrating Gukesh’s victory, emphasizing the impact it will have on future generations of Indian chess players.
Abhinav Bindra, India’s Olympic gold medalist in shooting, also commended Gukesh, highlighting his determination and composure under pressure, which has inspired an entire nation.
