Gukesh wins to be youngest World Chess Champion, beating Ding Liren

D Gukesh, 18, becomes world chess champion in an era defining match against Ding Liren, breaching the record to become the youngest ever.

India's 18-year-old D Gukesh made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion in an epochal moment for the game of chess when, in 14 thrilling games in Singapore, he upstaged Ding Liren to claim victory. The Chennai teenager, known for his calm qualities, broke down on that momentous day when he resented the long awaited achievement, one which had never been accomplished by any teenager over the century-old championship.

During the 55th move of Game 14, Ding Liren made a fatal blunder by miscalculating with 55.Rf2, leaving his last defense open. In this way, Gukesh checked him, and won the title. The game went down to one mistake, over four hours of intense play. Gukesh was focused throughout the tournament, refusing draws and fighting for win after win against all players. In addition to being masterful with the game, his enthusiastic dedication — complimented by a great respect for the game and fellow players — shone through.

Reflecting on his success, Gukesh paid credit to the grit of Ding, comparing him with other stars who have shown their brilliance in adversity. Gukesh’s win, however, with young Indian chess blunders dominating the global scene, is definitely the start of a new chapter for chess – maybe even a transformation in the way chess is imagined.

This victory for Gukesh brings the chess fraternity together and this victory comes as a testament to the beauty of this game in entertainment and art and strategy, every move counts and no battle ever ends.