“A New Era in Chess: D. Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Champion, Celebrated by Viswanathan Anand”

D Gukesh Crowned Youngest World Chess Champion, Anand Celebrates Historic Win

NEW DELHI: In a moment that will be etched in the annals of chess history, 18-year-old D Gukesh has made headlines by becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. The Chennai prodigy achieved this remarkable feat on Thursday, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a gripping 14-game match held in Singapore. Gukesh’s victory, clinched with a score of 7.5 to 6.5, not only marks a significant milestone for him but also for India, as he becomes only the second Indian to hold the prestigious title.

Celebrated five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand took to social media to share his joy over Gukesh’s triumph. Posting an old photograph of the two, Anand captioned it, “the boy who would be king.” He expressed his pride in Gukesh’s achievement, stating, “Congratulations! It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, a proud moment for WACA, and for me, a very personal moment of pride.” Anand also praised Ding for his exciting play throughout the match.

Gukesh’s victory is particularly significant as it breaks Garry Kasparov’s long-standing record of becoming World Champion at the age of 21. The young chess star’s journey to the title has been nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his talent and resilience on the global stage.

The championship match was a nail-biter, with both players displaying exceptional skill over three weeks of intense competition. After 13 games, the stage was set for a dramatic conclusion. Ding, who had effectively countered Gukesh’s aggressive tactics, seemed poised for a draw in the rapid and blitz tiebreakers. However, in a shocking turn of events, he made a critical blunder, allowing Gukesh to seize the opportunity and secure his victory.

This historic win comes just over a decade after Anand lost the title to Magnus Carlsen in Chennai in 2013. With Carlsen’s abdication of the crown earlier this year, the chess world has witnessed a new era, heralded by Gukesh’s remarkable ascent.

As the chess community celebrates this monumental achievement, Gukesh’s victory not only cements his place in history but also inspires a new generation of chess enthusiasts in India and beyond. The boy who would be king has indeed claimed his throne, and the world of chess eagerly awaits his next moves.