President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi congratulate Gukesh D on becoming the youngest world chess champion
NEW DELHI, DECEMBER 12, 2024l Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Gukesh D on becoming the youngest world chess champion. He hailed his feat as Historic and exemplary.
Responding to a post by the International Chess Federation handle on X, Shri Modi said:
“Historic and exemplary!
Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work and unwavering determination.
His triumph has not only etched his name in the annals of chess history but has also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence.
My best wishes for his future endeavours. @DGukesh”
Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh became the youngest-ever world champion when the 18-year-old defeated the reigning champion from China, Ding Liren, on Thursday at the World Chess Championship 2024, which was held in Singapore. Gukesh defeated Liren in the 14th and last game of a thrilling showdown to claim the world title.
Gukesh secured the requisite 7.5 points as against 6.5 of Liren after winning the last classical time control game of the 14-game match that seemed headed for a draw for the most part.
Before Gukesh’s feat on Thursday, the legendary Gary Kasparavo of Russia was the youngest world chess champion when he won the title at the age of 22, dethroning Anatoly Karpov in 1985.
Gukesh had entered the match as the youngest ever challenger to the world crown after winning the Candidates tournament earlier this year. He is the second Indian after the legendary Vishwanathan Anand to win global title. Anand, a five-time world champion, had last won the crown in 2013.
Complete list of youngest world chess champions
- D Gukesh – 18 year 8 months 14 days – December 12, 2024
- Garry Kasparov – 22 years 6 months 27 days – November 9, 1985
- Magnus Carlsen – 22 years 11 months 24 days – November 23, 2013
- Mikhail Tal – 23 years 5 months 28 days – May 7, 1960
- Anatoly Karpov – 23 years 10 months 11 days – April 3, 1975
- Vladimir Kramnik – 25 years 4 months 10 days – November 4, 2000
- Emanuel Lasker – 25 years 5 months 2 days – May 26, 1894
President Droupadi Murmu too congratulated Gukesh. “Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud. His victory stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse.
