Gukesh D. becomes youngest-ever Chess World Champion
18-year-old Indian chess prodigy Gukesh D. has become the youngest-ever FIDE World Champion and the 18th in history, reports a Kazinform News Agency correspondent, citing the International Chess Federation.
In a dramatic turn of events, Gukesh defeated reigning champion Ding Liren in the 14th and final game of the 2024 FIDE World Championship, with a final score of 7.5-6.5. A critical mistake by Ding on move 55 led to his resignation just three moves later.
The game began with Ding playing 1.Nf3, the Reti opening, while Gukesh countered with 1…d5. Ding’s strategy involved a kingside fianchetto and the Reversed Grunfeld, reflecting his deep expertise in the Grunfeld Defense. Commentator IM Jovanka Houska noted, “Ding is now playing a Reversed Grunfeld—a total mirror image, but with an extra move for White.” Despite Ding’s cautious approach to gain a small advantage, Gukesh responded with sharp and unexpected moves, particularly the innovative 6…Ng-e7.
The position remained balanced for much of the game, with both players showing near-perfect accuracy. However, a small misstep on move 14, when Ding played 14.b3 instead of the engine-preferred 14.Qe2, allowed Gukesh to equalize. Both players seemed content with a draw, but Gukesh pushed for winning chances while Ding played it safe, perhaps looking ahead to potential tiebreaks.
The pivotal moment came on move 55, when Ding offered an exchange of rooks with 55.Rf2, overlooking Gukesh’s decisive reply, 56…Bd5. This led to a winning king-and-pawn endgame for Gukesh.
Ding acknowledged his mistake, saying, “I was totally in shock when I realized I made a blunder.”
Gukesh described the moment he realized he was winning as “the best moment of my life.”
After the match, Gukesh praised his opponent: “Ding is a true champion. To see him fight so hard shows his greatness.” Reflecting on his victory, he added, “Since I was seven, I have dreamed of this moment. I am living my dream.”
The 2024 World Championship, held in Singapore, highlighted chess as a bridge between cultures, with FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich praising the location. Gukesh’s historic win marks a new era in chess, showcasing the rise of a new generation of talent.
🇮🇳 Gukesh D 🥹
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 12, 2024
Ladies and gentlemen, the 18th WORLD CHAMPION! #DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/CgzYBgeTfq
