Fri Dec 13 16:23:36 UTC 2024: ## Indian Chess Prodigy D. Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Champion

**Singapore** – Eighteen-year-old Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh has created history by winning the World Chess Championship 2024, defeating Ding Liren of China 7.5-6.5 in Singapore. This victory makes him the youngest World Chess Champion ever, the second Indian to achieve this feat after Viswanathan Anand.

Gukesh’s triumph has been met with widespread celebration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the young champion, calling his achievement historic and inspirational for India’s youth. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) also announced Gukesh’s win on its official X handle.

The prize money for the championship has also garnered significant attention. While the total prize pool was $2.5 million (approximately ₹21.2 crore), a significant portion was divided equally between the two finalists. However, Gukesh’s individual winnings, including match winnings and his share of the prize pool, totaled approximately $1,350,000 (approximately ₹11.45 crore), exceeding the earnings of many top players in other sports. This surpasses the earnings of many top players in the Indian Premier League (IPL), according to reports. Ding Liren received approximately $1,150,000 (approximately ₹9.75 crore). FIDE rules stipulate a $200,000 prize for each match win.

Gukesh’s victory marks a monumental moment for Indian chess and is expected to inspire a new generation of players.

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