World Chess Championship  

Gukesh has created history as the youngest World Chess Champion. Learn about his journey, the role of Velammal School, and Chennai's rise as India's chess hub.

Gukesh has made history by winning the World Chess Championship, becoming the youngest ever champion at the age of 18.

In a historic moment for the world of chess, India’s D. Gukesh became the youngest World Chess Champion by defeating China’s Ding Liren in a 14-round match at the FIDE World Chess Championship 2024, held in Singapore. The 18-year-old prodigy emerged victorious after a dramatic final game, marking a monumental achievement for the chess community and India.
 

Gukesh defeated Ding Liren to become the youngest World Chess Champion, surpassing Garry Kasparov's record. Prime Minister Modi and other prominent figures lauded Gukesh's historic win, which makes him the second Indian to hold the title after Viswanathan Anand.

Gukesh, a 17-year-old from Chennai, became the only second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to be chosen for the World Championship match. While winning his last round game over American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura, Gukesh scored 9 of a maximum fourteen points.