Indian Chess Prodigy D Gukesh Advocates for Chess in Olympics and Discusses Future Tournaments

Indian chess prodigy and youngest world champion D Gukesh is making headlines once again, this time for his desire to see chess included in the Olympics. The talented player believes that this move would significantly elevate the sport’s global profile and bring it to the next level.

Gukesh expressed his hopes of playing in the Summer Games if India wins the hosting rights for the 2036 event. India recently won both the men’s and women’s gold medals at the Chess Olympiad in 2024, showcasing the country’s prowess in the sport on a global stage.

Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Gukesh said, “I would love to see chess being part of the Olympics, especially if it’s in India. I think chess has been getting a lot of popularity and a lot of support. I’m really happy for it, and the Olympics will take it to the next level. Really looking forward to it.”

In addition to his Olympic aspirations, Gukesh also spoke about his upcoming tournament in 2025. He is set to kick off his campaign at the Tata Steel Masters in the Netherlands, where he will face Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri. The young champion is excited to return to competitive chess after a break and is looking forward to the challenges ahead.

Gukesh recently made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion at the age of 18, defeating Ding Liren of China in the World Chess Championship 2024. He was felicitated with a Rs 1 crore cash reward for his remarkable achievement and was also awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna by President Droupadi Murmu, making him only the second chess player after Viswanathan Anand to receive this prestigious honor.

With his sights set on the Olympics and a promising future in competitive chess, D Gukesh continues to inspire and make waves in the world of chess.