Indian chess sensation D Gukesh, just 17 years old, has become the youngest-ever challenger for the World Chess Championship. He secured victory at the FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament with an impressive score of 9 out of 14 points, breaking Garry Kasparov’s 40-year-old record.
The Chennai native’s historic achievement includes being the first teenager to win the Candidates tournament, surpassing other top contenders like Fabiano Caruana and Hikaru Nakamura. Gukesh’s victory also marks the first time an Indian player has claimed the title since 2014.
Gukesh’s journey to the championship was a thrilling one, involving tight matches and crucial draws. In the final round, Gukesh held his nerve and managed a draw against Nakamura, which secured his overall win. Meanwhile, his contenders Caruana and Nepomniachtchi also drew their match, leading to Gukesh’s triumph in the tournament.
The talented teen will face reigning world champion Ding Liren later this year in a highly anticipated match. Gukesh’s achievement has made the entire nation proud and sets the stage for an exciting future in the world of chess.