In a remarkable achievement that has captured the attention of chess enthusiasts and sports fans worldwide, D Gukesh, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from India, has become the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. His victory, which dethroned China’s Ding Liren with a 7.5-6.5 score in a thrilling 14-game battle, marks a historic moment for Indian chess. To celebrate this monumental achievement, Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a ₹5 crore cash prize for Gukesh, a gesture that honors his outstanding performance and dedication to the sport.
D Gukesh: A Rising Star in the Chess World
D Gukesh’s victory is no small feat. The young chess player has not only made his nation proud but also etched his name in the annals of chess history. At just 18, Gukesh has become the second Indian to win the prestigious World Chess Championship title, following in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who has won the title five times.
Gukesh’s journey to the title was a captivating one. He entered the 2024 World Chess Championship as the youngest-ever challenger, having triumphed in the Candidates Tournament earlier this year. Throughout the tournament, Gukesh exhibited exceptional skill, strategic thinking, and mental fortitude. His ability to hold his own against some of the world’s best players, including the formidable Ding Liren, showcased his growing mastery of the game.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s ₹5 Crore Cash Prize Announcement
Following Gukesh’s remarkable victory, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin took to social media to announce a ₹5 crore cash prize in recognition of the young chess champion’s achievement. In a heartfelt post, Stalin expressed his joy and pride in Gukesh’s success, emphasizing how his historic win has brought immense pride and happiness to the nation.
“To honor the monumental achievement of @DGukesh, the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, I am delighted to announce a cash prize of ₹5 crore!” Stalin wrote.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the efforts of Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development of Tamil Nadu, and the Sports Department of Tamil Nadu for their unwavering support and encouragement in nurturing Gukesh’s talent.
Garry Kasparov Hails D Gukesh’s Achievement
The significance of Gukesh’s victory extends beyond India. Chess legends around the world have celebrated the young champion’s triumph. Among them is Russian chess great Garry Kasparov, who was once the youngest World Chess Champion until Gukesh surpassed him. Kasparov lauded Gukesh for his remarkable feat, saying that the young champion had “summitted the highest peak of all,” a reference not only to his chess victory but also to his ability to make his mother proud.
Kasparov further praised Gukesh for overcoming every obstacle and opponent in his path, particularly given his young age. He added, “The future is bright not only in chess. The summit has been reached, and now the goal must be to raise it even higher for the next ascent.”
Kasparov also expressed admiration for India as a nation with an “unlimited pool of human talent,” a sentiment that highlights the growing influence of Indian chess on the global stage.
A Historic Moment in Chess
D Gukesh’s victory represents more than just an individual triumph. It marks a significant shift in the world of chess, particularly in terms of the rise of young talent from India. The country has long been home to some of the world’s best chess players, and Gukesh’s win only further cements India’s position as a powerhouse in the world of chess.
Before Gukesh’s historic feat, Garry Kasparov, the Russian grandmaster, held the title of the youngest World Chess Champion. He achieved this milestone at the age of 22, defeating Anatoly Karpov in 1985. Gukesh’s victory at 18 years old has shattered this long-standing record and solidified his place among the greats of the game.
What Lies Ahead for D Gukesh?
With this prestigious victory, Gukesh’s career is poised for even greater success. As the youngest World Chess Champion, his future in the game looks incredibly bright. Fans, commentators, and chess experts alike are eager to see how he will continue to shape the future of chess, both in India and globally.
The ₹5 crore cash prize from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is not just a recognition of Gukesh’s victory but also a symbol of the support and encouragement young athletes in India are receiving. It highlights the growing importance of nurturing talent in various fields, including chess, and encourages the next generation of chess players to follow in Gukesh’s footsteps.
Conclusion
D Gukesh’s historic victory as the youngest-ever World Chess Champion is a moment of pride for India and a turning point for the sport of chess. With the support of Tamil Nadu’s government and the admiration of global chess legends, Gukesh is set to continue his rise in the chess world. As the chess community watches closely, one can only wonder what heights this young champion will reach next.
D Gukesh has not just made history for himself, but he has also inspired millions of young chess enthusiasts, proving that with talent, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible.
