Youngster Gukesh Dommaraju defeated opponent Ding Liren with a performance score of 7.5-6.5 in their best-of-14 final in Singapore. With this victory, he became the youngest undefeated classical chess world champion ever.
Gukesh and Ding, the reigning champion, were tied as they went into the final game, and it looked like they would have to play chess tiebreaks. However, the 18-year-old athlete won the final point after Ding made a mistake.
With the unexpected turn of events, Ding was unable to do more than sit with his head in his hands in shock. Gukesh burst into tears as he realized his win. At 18, he is four years younger than the great Garry Kasparov was when the Russian became the world champion in 1985.
In a press conference, Gukesh admitted: “My journey, it’s been since the time I started playing chess at six-and-a-half, seven (years old). I’ve been dreaming about this moment for more than 10 years… Every chess player wants to experience this moment and very few get the chance. To be one of them – I think the only way to explain it is I am living my dream. I would like to thank God first of all. This whole journey starting from qualifying to the (qualifying tournament) Candidates, then coming here, it could only be possible by God. There were so many miracles.”
He added: “And I’m thankful for all the people who have been by my side on this journey. I would like to thank each and every one of them, but probably I will have to prepare my speech first because (with) the kind of emotions I’m feeling right now I’ll say something stupid.”
In a social media post, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh, stating: “Historic and exemplary! 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. My best wishes for his future endeavours.”
Historic and exemplary!
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… https://t.co/fOqqPZLQlr pic.twitter.com/Xa1kPaiHdg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2024
Source: CNN