Fri Dec 13 04:03:24 UTC 2024: ## Indian Chess Prodigy D. Gukesh Wins World Championship
**Singapore, Dec 13, 2024** – Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh has created history by winning the World Chess Championship in Singapore, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the final round. The victory was met with emotional tears from Gukesh, who was seen embracing his father after the match.
In a post-match interview, Gukesh expressed disbelief at his win, calling the moment “the best of his life.” He praised Ding Liren, calling him a “true world champion” and thanking him for the incredible match. Gukesh revealed he’d dreamed of this moment since the age of six or seven, stating that winning the championship fulfilled a lifelong ambition. He attributed his success to God’s grace and expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his journey.
Gukesh’s victory is particularly significant as it marks India’s return to the top of the chess world after an 11-year gap. He recalled watching the 2013 World Championship and dreaming of one day competing on that stage.
Ding Liren, in his post-match comments, admitted to making a crucial mistake but expressed no regrets, noting that he had played his best chess this year.
Gukesh’s journey to the championship title highlights the immense sacrifices made by his parents. His father, Rajinikanth, an ENT specialist, and his mother, Padma, a microbiologist, made significant personal and professional sacrifices to support his career, including Rajinikanth foregoing his job to accompany Gukesh to international tournaments. Their financial commitment was substantial, with support eventually coming from the Viswanathan Anand Academy. Gukesh became India’s youngest Grandmaster in 2019 at the age of 12 years and 17 days. His win now positions him as a successor to Viswanathan Anand in bringing glory to India.
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