1. Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh, 17, clinches victory in Candidates Chess Tournament, making history.
2. Gukesh becomes the youngest contender for the world title; to challenge Ding Liren of China.
3. Remarkable achievement earns Gukesh widespread acclaim in the chess community.
New Delhi, April 22: India’s chess prodigy, 17-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh, etched his name in history books by clinching victory at the Candidates Chess Tournament, becoming the youngest contender ever for the world title.
Set to challenge reigning world champion Ding Liren from China later this year, Gukesh’s remarkable achievement has garnered widespread acclaim.
Accumulating nine points out of a possible 14, Gukesh secured his historic win by drawing his final-round game against American Hikaru Nakamura.
He joins the ranks of India’s chess legends, following in the footsteps of the illustrious Viswanathan Anand, who won the Candidates Tournament in 2014, paving the way for Gukesh’s monumental triumph.
Viswanathan Anand, expressing pride and admiration for Gukesh’s accomplishment, extended his heartfelt congratulations via social media.
“Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done. I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment,” Anand posted on ‘X’, celebrating the young chess sensation who shares Chennai as their hometown.
Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done . I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) April 22, 2024
Gukesh’s victory hinged on the outcome of the final game between Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia and top-seeded American Fabiano Caruana.
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A draw in this decisive match ensured Gukesh’s sole leadership in the tournament. Had either player emerged victorious, a tie-breaker would have been necessary, potentially altering the course of the competition.
A rising star in the chess world, Gukesh had previously made headlines as the third-youngest player in history to attain the prestigious Grandmaster title at the age of 12.
His remarkable talent and dedication to the game have earned him widespread recognition, culminating in his recent triumph at the Candidates Tournament.
In addition to his chess prowess, Gukesh has showcased his skills on the international stage, clinching a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year.
As he prepares to face off against Ding Liren for the world title, the chess community eagerly awaits the announcement of the championship’s dates and venue, anticipating another momentous chapter in Gukesh’s remarkable journey.
