In a historic chess victory, 17-year-old Indian grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju has become the youngest player ever to win the prestigious Candidates Tournament, setting him up for another challenge for the World Chess Championship title.
The Candidates tournament ended on Sunday in Toronto, Canada, with Gukesh securing his spot to face the current world champion, Ding Liren of China.
Reflecting on his victory, Gukesh shared his joy and the mental resilience that powered his success. “I’m just so relieved, so happy following this crazy game,” he said.
“I was in the right mindset throughout the event. From start to end, I was in good spirits, fully motivated, and I really wanted to win the event.”
The Indian prodigy, who became a grandmaster at the age of 12, has consistently broken records.
Despite his series of historic achievements, Gukesh remains modest about his record-setting pace.
“I don’t really care about youngest and all these records, but it’s a nice thing to say,” he commented. “Right now I’m mostly just happy about winning the tournament.”
The International Chess Federation has confirmed that Gukesh is now the youngest World Chess Championship challenger in history.
This title was secured after a fiercely competitive tournament that notably did not include multiple world champion Magnus Carlsen from Norway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Gukesh’s triumph, celebrating it as a national achievement. “India is exceptionally proud of Gukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the FIDE Candidates!” he wrote on X.
“Gukesh’s remarkable achievement at the Candidates in Toronto
showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication. His outstanding performance and journey to the top inspires millions.”
The young grandmaster first made headlines when he became India’s youngest grandmaster at just 12 years, seven months, and 17 days old.
Although he narrowly missed the world record by 17 days, his latest accomplishment has indisputably placed him on the global chess map.
The details for the upcoming World Chess Championship match, where Gukesh will face Ding Liren, are yet to be announced.
Fans and chess enthusiasts around the world eagerly await what promises to be an exhilarating showdown.