Young Indian chess player Gukesh D made history by winning the title of FIDE World Chess Champion when he triumphed over China’s Ding Liren in Game 14 in Singapore. Gukesh, only 18 years old, became a record breaker as he defeated the reigning champion and secured India’s second world chess championship after Viswanathan Anand.
This achievement followed Gukesh’s impressive performance at the Candidates tournament where he outlasted some of the toughest competitors to emerge victorious. He celebrated his success with Ding’s defeat at Chennai Airport, where both fans and media gathered in large numbers to welcome him as a hero when he arrived from the airplane.
VIDEO | World chess champion D Gukesh (@DGukesh) arrives at #Chennai airport to a rousing welcome.
Gukesh became the youngest world chess champion at the age of 18 years. He defeated title-holder Ding Liren of China in the 14th and last game of a roller-coaster showdown that… pic.twitter.com/OaemAYTtuf
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 16, 2024
Dressed in ceremonial attire, Gukesh addressed the media: “Thank you for all the support. It means a lot to bring back [the] trophy to India. Thank you for this reception. I hope we will have a great time in the next few days celebrating together. ”
Becoming a grandmaster at the age of 12, Gukesh has now emerged as a significant chess figure, also contributing to India’s victory in the gold medal at the 45th Chess Olympiad in 2024. Gukesh, while appreciating his fans, stated, “I could see the support and what it means to India. You guys are amazing. You gave me so much energy. “
