Move over, Magnus Carlsen! Eighteen-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju of India stunned the chess world Thursday by defeating China's Ding Liren in a nail-biting 14-game showdown in Singapore. With this victory, Gukesh becomes the youngest world chess champion in history—breaking a 39-year record held by Garry Kasparov.
The final game saw Gukesh, playing with black pieces, capitalize on Ding's critical blunder in what commentators called a 'heartbreaking' moment for the defending champion. The win sealed the match 7.5-6.5 and pocketed Gukesh a share of the $2.5 million prize fund.
Ding, who claimed the title in 2023 after defeating Russia's Ian Nepomniachtchi, had struggled with form this year. Though he briefly rallied mid-match, the pressure ultimately proved too much. Fans worldwide flooded social media with tributes to both players, with one viral meme joking: 'When your homework deadline is easier than facing Gukesh.'
Gukesh’s rise mirrors India’s chess explosion —he’s the third Indian to dominate the sport after Viswanathan Anand and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa. His win follows India’s gold medal sweep at September’s Chess Olympiad, proving the country is now a global chess powerhouse.
Meanwhile, former world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen—who stepped down in 2022—tweeted: 'The kids are alright. ' Could this mark a generational shift in chess? Only time will tell.
Eighteen-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju of India stunned the chess world Thursday by defeating China's Ding Liren in a nail-biting 14-game showdown in Singapore. With this victory, Gukesh becomes the youngest world chess champion in history—breaking a 39-year record held by Garry Kasparov. 
' Could this mark a generational shift in chess? Only time will tell. 
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