Teenager Gukesh Dommaraju from India has made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion at just 18 years old, defeating the defending champion Ding Liren from China in a thrilling final match in Singapore. This remarkable achievement marks Gukesh as the 18th world champion, surpassing the previous record held by Garry Kasparov, who was 22 when he claimed the title in 1985.
Gukesh clinched the championship with a victory that saw him playing the black pieces, navigating a tense game where Ding faltered under pressure despite appearing to be in a favorable position. The final score of the match was an impressive 7.5–6.5 in favor of Gukesh, showcasing his resilience and skill throughout the competition.
Ding, following his earlier triumph over Ian Nepomniachtchi in 2023, had faced a significant dip in form, struggling in classical formats and opting not to participate in high-stakes tournaments to regain his footing. However, he found a spark during the match, having celebrated a surprising win in the opening round and ultimately equalizing the score at one point before falling to Gukesh in the final game.
The match consisted of 14 rounds and was part of a classical chess event with a remarkable prize fund of $2.5 million. Gukesh secured his spot in this prestigious contest by winning the Candidates tournament earlier in April.
Interestingly, the chess landscape experienced a shift after Magnus Carlsen, who was the world champion since 2013, stepped down from his title in 2022, citing a lack of motivation. Gukesh’s victory can be viewed as a promising new chapter for chess, inspiring a new generation and signaling exciting times ahead for the sport.
In summary, Gukesh’s triumph not only showcases his exceptional talent but also revitalizes interest in chess, reminding us of the endless possibilities in this ancient game. His achievements at such a young age set a powerful example for aspiring players worldwide, encouraging them to pursue excellence against all odds.
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