In a historic achievement, 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju stunned the reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a nail-biting finale to claim the World Chess Championship title. His triumph in Singapore makes him the youngest world champion in chess history, surpassing Garry Kasparov’s record set in 1985.
The victory, sealed with a score of 7.5-6.5 after a dramatic final game, has drawn accolades from across the spectrum, with politicians and business leaders hailing Gukesh’s achievement as a moment of pride for India.
President Droupadi Murmu led the nation’s congratulatory messages, saying, “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. Well done Gukesh! On behalf of every Indian, I wish you sustained glory in the future.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Gukesh’s victory “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,” PM Modi said
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya lauded Gukesh’s dedication, tweeting, “Chess Prodigy! Extending my warm wishes to D Gukesh for clinching the prestigious World Chess Championship title and becoming the youngest World Champion in the history of Chess. Your hard work & dedication has made the entire nation proud!”
Union Minister Anurag Thakur called it a historic milestone, stating, “History scripted! At just 18, Gukesh D. conquers the chess world, becoming the youngest-ever World Champion by defeating Ding Liren in a nerve-wracking finale. From meditative focus to fearless moves, Gukesh has redefined brilliance on the global stage. India celebrates its new king!”
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also joined in the celebrations, remarking, “Gukesh, you’ve made all of India proud! At just 18, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion is a phenomenal achievement. Your passion and hard work remind us that with determination, anything is possible. Congratulations, champ!”
Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao, proud of Gukesh’s roots, expressed his admiration: “Heartiest congratulations to the chess prodigy D Gukesh on winning the World Chess Championship! Most of us were figuring out what to do at 18! And you have set a wonderful world record. Heartiest congratulations to parents of Gukesh too. Such an incredible moment, not just for his family but the entire nation. I am sure you will inspire many generations. Keep shining!”
Industrialist Anand Mahindra summed up the sentiment with fervour, exclaiming, “The symbolism and the meaning of this moment for all Indians is not to be spoken about—it is only to be imagined… CHAK DE INDIAAAAAAAAAA!”
Anand Mahindra shared a video showing the moment Gukesh was crowned the youngest world chess champion.
Business magnate Harsh Goenka celebrated the triumph with a touch of humor: “Chess is a battle of minds and strategy, and today, an Indian has checkmated the world! Congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the World Chess Champion after a true DING-dong battle. India’s brilliance reigns supreme on the global stage—proud moment for our nation!”
