World Chess Champion Gukesh Dommaraju expressed his heartfelt gratitude on Thursday after being awarded the prestigious Khel Ratna, India’s highest sporting honor. In a press conference, Gukesh highlighted the importance of this recognition in his career and Indian chess history.
“I am grateful for the prestigious award. It’s truly special to be the second player after Viswanathan Anand to receive the Khel Ratna,” said Gukesh.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports announced the recipients of the National Sports Awards 2024 on January 2. Gukesh was rewarded for his remarkable achievements in the past year, especially for winning the historic World Chess Championship.
Gukesh Looks Back at Historic Win
He won the World Championship title in a nail-biting final against China’s Ding Liren in December 2024 in Singapore, taking the victory with a perfect performance in the 14th decisive game, leading to a final score of 7.5-6.5. This made Gukesh the world’s youngest champion at age 18, and he also became the second Indian to do so, just after his guru, Viswanathan Anand.
“2024 has been an incredible year for Indian chess. From winning the Candidates Tournament to the Olympiads and the World Championship, we’ve achieved so much. This award motivates me to aim even higher,” he added.
Advocates for Chess in the Olympics
Gukesh also emphasized the growing popularity of chess in India and expressed his desire to see the sport included in the Olympics.
“I would love to see chess being part of the Olympics, especially if it’s held in India. Chess is gaining immense popularity and support, and inclusion in the Olympics would elevate the sport to the next level,” he said.
Humpy Celebrates Second World Rapid Title
The second speaker was the Indian Woman Grandmaster Koneru Humpy. She spoke of her recent win at the FIDE Women’s World Rapid Championship. Humpy clinched her second world rapid title after she won the last round of the tournament in New York against Irene Sukandar from Indonesia.
I am very happy to win the second World Rapid title. This victory is even more special as the first one came in 2019 after a break from my career. As a mother, it’s a proud moment that will inspire young girls to take up chess,” Humpy said.
Humpy also thanked the Indian government, the Prime Minister, and the AICF for their recognition and encouragement.
A New Era for Indian Chess
Indian chess will step up further achievements in 2025 with leaders Gukesh and Humpy leading the race. Gukesh will put the country on the superboard immediately when the Tata Steel Chess Tournament begins in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands from January 17 to February 2.
