D Gukesh, an Indian chess prodigy, has won the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship held thus far at 18 years making him the youngest world champion in history. This great victory against world chess champion Ding Liren of China, helped Gukesh to mark his name in the history of chess while allowing every Indian heart with pride as the nation reclaimed the title after 11 years.
Gukesh took advantage of Ding obstructing the uncharacteristic 55th move-an oversight which drastically turned the game in favor of Gukesh. “This is my best moment in life,” Gukesh stated at the post-match press conference. He paid tribute to Ding’s talent and complimented him as a “true champion” for fighting fiercely through the championship
Gukesh started playing chess at the age of six. His chess training commenced under his father, Dr. R. Dommaraju, a medicine specialist, and his mother, a housewife named Padma, who noticed Gukesh’s premonition for the game. When he turned 12, he became the second-youngest grandmaster in the world, thus heralding his future lay in total dominance on the chess board.
He broke the previous long-standing record set by Garry Kasparov for having become a world champion at 22. “I have been dreaming of this occasion since my childhood, and it feels unreal to have it come true,” said Gukesh. Gukesh’s victory also rekindles Indian chess, reviving the legacy that was established by five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh on landing the title and tweeted, “Historic and exceptional indeed! A most earnest congratulations to Gukesh D on this remarkable achievement. It is a result of unparalleled talent, hard work, and unwavering determination.” Anand himself said Gukesh as “the torchbearer of Indian chess. For former world champion Vladimir Kramnik, it was only a matter of “the battle of mistakes” that marred what was in itself a very enjoyable game. Nonetheless, his consistent performance during the tournament in which he defeated top players like Ian Nepomniachtchi and Magnus Carlsen is proof of his skill and strategic understanding.
Gukesh’s college institution Velammal Vidyalaya in Chennai has announced a grand celebration for its most famous and brilliant student. “He has made us all proud and set an example for young minds across the nation,” said the principal of the college. Chess academies in various parts of India are now rejoicing and seeing Gukesh’s success as motivation for the next generation of players.
He took training for 12 hours per day under his coach Vishnu Prasanna. “This is just the beginning, for all, though many of them played chess, as a common game, I think it should be made as a well-recognized sport, where more and more people can be engaged,” Gukesh said. Gukesh’s brand value will be significantly augmented with endorsement and sponsorships. This will make him one of the globally influential personalities even in the sports arena.
As India celebrates this historic achievement, Gukesh does not forget his roots, “More than the title itself.
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