Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has made history at the 2024 World Chess Championship by defeating China’s Ding Liren in a thrilling 14-match battle. At just 18 years old, Gukesh became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, cementing his place in the annals of chess history. In this article, we break down his incredible journey, his prize earnings, and the impact of his victory on the world of chess.
Gukesh Makes History: The Youngest Chess World Champion
In an extraordinary display of skill and resilience, D Gukesh triumphed over Ding Liren with a 7.5-6.5 victory in the final match, clinching the 2024 World Chess Championship title. The contest, which unfolded over 14 games, was mentally taxing, showcasing the immense talent and perseverance of the young Indian chess prodigy.
Gukesh’s victory is not only remarkable for his age but also for the prestige it brings to India. At 18, Gukesh broke the record as the youngest player to ever win the coveted title, surpassing previous records and making his mark on the global chess stage.
Prize Money Breakdown: How Much Did Gukesh Win?
The 2024 World Chess Championship prize pool stood at a hefty $2.5 million (approximately ₹20.75 crore). The prize money was distributed based on the performance in each game, with $200,000 awarded for each win.
Gukesh’s Earnings:
- Gukesh won three games in the series, including Games 3, 11, and 14.
- For each win, Gukesh earned $200,000, totaling $600,000 (approximately ₹5.04 crore).
- The remaining prize pool of $1.5 million (₹12.65 crore) was equally split between the two competitors.
- As a result, Gukesh earned a total of $1.35 million (around ₹11.34 crore) for his historic victory.
Ding Liren’s Earnings:
- Ding Liren secured victories in Games 1 and 2, earning $400,000 (around ₹3.36 crore) for his wins.
- The remaining $1.5 million was split equally between the two players.
- Ding’s total earnings amounted to $1.15 million (approximately ₹9.66 crore).
Gukesh’s Emotions After the Victory
In an emotional post-match statement, Gukesh shared his joy and excitement, saying, “I’ve been dreaming about this moment since I was 6 or 7. It feels surreal to live my dream and win the title I’ve aspired to for so long.” His passion and dedication were clear as he expressed gratitude for his journey to the top. Gukesh’s victory marks the realization of a dream that started as a child, and he dedicated the triumph to his hard work, family, and the chess community.
A Nation Celebrates: Gukesh’s Impact on Indian Chess
The significance of Gukesh’s victory extends beyond just the prize money. It serves as an inspiration to millions of young chess enthusiasts across India and the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh for his remarkable achievement, calling it “historic and exemplary.” He added that Gukesh’s win would inspire countless young minds to pursue excellence.
Indian chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi also lauded Gukesh’s win, stating that his triumph would attract a lot more young players to the game. Gujrathi emphasized that Gukesh’s achievement at such a young age would encourage more people to take up chess and explore its depth.
How Gukesh’s Win Affects the Global Chess Community
D Gukesh’s victory is poised to have a transformative effect on the chess world. As the youngest ever World Chess Champion, he represents the future of the game. His success not only boosts the profile of Indian chess but also signals the rise of young talent on the international stage. With India’s growing chess community, many more aspiring grandmasters will be motivated to follow in Gukesh’s footsteps and aim for the top.
The win also brings attention to the importance of early training and perseverance. Gukesh’s story is one of relentless dedication and focus, proving that age is no barrier to greatness in chess.
Conclusion: D Gukesh’s Legacy
D Gukesh’s 2024 World Chess Championship win is a monumental achievement for both himself and the chess community. His story is an inspiration to aspiring players worldwide, showing that determination and passion can lead to extraordinary success. With $1.35 million in earnings and a place in history, Gukesh’s future in chess looks incredibly bright. His win is not just about the title, but the potential to inspire a new generation of chess enthusiasts and champions.
Whether you are a long-time chess fan or a newcomer to the game, Gukesh’s victory is a testament to the power of hard work, skill, and unyielding passion in the world of competitive sports.
