In an electrifying final in Singapore, 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju claimed the World Chess Championship title, defeating defending champion Ding Liren with a narrow 7.5-6.5 victory. The match came down to the wire, with both players tied heading into the last game. Gukesh seized the opportunity when Ding made a critical mistake, clinching the title without the need for tiebreak rounds.
As the winning move was made, Gukesh broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the realization of his lifelong dream. His victory earned him a $2.5 million prize and marked a pivotal moment in his career. Fans in India erupted in celebrations, with social media buzzing with clips of joyous crowds embracing the young champion’s success.
At just 18 years old, Gukesh is among the youngest players to ever win the title, joining the ranks of chess legends like Garry Kasparov. Reflecting on his achievement, he called it “the best moment of my life,” acknowledging the years of dedication that brought him to this point.
The victory solidifies India’s position as a global chess powerhouse, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand and other rising stars. Leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Draupadi Murmu praised Gukesh’s determination and talent, celebrating his achievement as a source of pride for the nation.