Youngest-Ever World Chess Champion D Gukesh Ranked Fifth in the World, Arjun Erigaisi Fourth: Viswanathan Anand Predicts Possible Face-Off
D Gukesh Makes History as Youngest-Ever World Chess Champion, Arjun Erigaisi Ranked Highest Indian Player
In a historic moment for Indian chess, D Gukesh has become the youngest-ever world chess champion at the age of 18. The Indian grandmaster achieved this feat by defeating defending champion Ding Liren at the World Chess Championship in Singapore. Gukesh’s victory came after a hard-fought battle that saw him notch three wins against two for Liren, along with nine draws in the 14 classical rounds.
Despite his world championship title, Gukesh is currently ranked fifth in the world, with Arjun Erigaisi holding the fourth spot. Erigaisi, who recently won the final round match against GM Jan Subelj of Slovenia at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad, is now the highest-ranked Indian chess player.
Fans are now eagerly anticipating a possible title face-off between Gukesh and Erigaisi. India legend Viswanathan Anand has weighed in on the possibility, stating that there is a 5-10 percent chance of it happening.
Erigaisi has had a successful year in 2024, winning the WR Chess Masters Cup, the Stepan Avagyan Memorial, and the Menorca Open. He also earned individual gold on board three at the Chess Olympiad, showcasing his exceptional talent in the game. With a grandmaster title earned at the age of 14 years, 11 months, 13 days, Erigaisi has quickly risen through the ranks to become India’s top-rated player.
If Erigaisi does end up challenging Gukesh for the world championship title, it will undoubtedly be a thrilling match for chess fans to witness. Stay updated with the latest sports news, including updates from the Olympics 2024, tennis Grand Slam tournaments, football matches, and international hockey tournaments, to catch all the action as it unfolds.