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Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh etched his name in the annals of history by becoming the youngest-ever world chess champion. On Thursday, December 12, the 18-year-old defeated defending champion Ding Liren of China in the decisive 14th game of the World Chess Championship held in Singapore. Gukesh not only secured the title with a score of 7.5-6.5 but also broke the record set by Garry Kasparov, who won the championship at 22 years of age in 1985. He became the second Indian after the legendary Viswanathan Anand to clinch the prestigious title.

Heading into the final game, both Gukesh and Ding were tied at 6.5 points each, setting the stage for an intense showdown. Ding, playing with white pieces, seemed to have the upper hand initially, but his 53rd move turned out to be a critical mistake. Gukesh, a pawn up at the time, maintained unrelenting pressure, forcing another error from Ding that ultimately sealed the match. The moment Ding resigned, Gukesh was visibly emotional, with tears of joy streaming down his face as he took in his monumental achievement.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO GUKESH, THE NEW WORLD CHAMPION ???? ????????
The 18-year-old Indian star has defeated the reigning champion, Ding Liren, to become the youngest-ever undisputed classical chess world champion.#GukeshDing #FIDEWorldChessChampionship pic.twitter.com/Qkl4GC1IIG

— XtraTime (@xtratimeindia) December 12, 2024

The emotional moment that 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju became the 18th world chess champion ???????? pic.twitter.com/jRIZrYeyCF

— Chess.com (@chesscom) December 12, 2024

Reflecting on his triumph, Gukesh called it the “best day of my life.” His exceptional play in the final moments defied expectations, as many chess experts, including Viswanathan Anand, had predicted a draw during the endgame. Gukesh, however, took a bold approach, extending the match and eventually compelling Ding into submission.

The championship journey was far from easy for the Indian Grandmaster. Gukesh started on a shaky note, losing the opening game with white pieces. However, he made a strong comeback with a win in Game 3. The contest then saw a series of seven consecutive draws before Gukesh stunned Ding with a brilliant performance in Game 11. Ding responded fiercely in Game 12, securing a near-flawless win while playing with white.

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♥️ Gukesh's dad after he realized that his son had won the World Championship ????#GukeshDing #DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/0WCwRbmzmd

— Chess.com - India (@chesscom_in) December 12, 2024

"When Magnus won, I thought I really want to be the one to bring back the title to India" - ???????? Gukesh D#DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/8ZddwM5D0G

— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 12, 2024

In Game 13, Ding showcased his defensive skills to force a draw, pushing the championship into its climactic 14th game. With everything on the line, Gukesh displayed nerves of steel, seizing the opportunity when Ding faltered.

This victory marks a crowning moment in a phenomenal year for Gukesh. Earlier in the year, he won the Candidates Tournament, becoming the youngest challenger for the world title. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in leading India to a historic gold medal at the Chess Olympiad.

Gukesh’s achievement as the youngest undisputed world champion highlights his immense talent and determination, cementing his place as a rising star in the world of chess. The Indian chess community now celebrates the emergence of a new icon following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand.