D Gukesh Triumphs at 2024 FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto

D Gukesh, the 17-year-old Indian chess prodigy, has made history by winning the 2024 FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto, Canada. Gukesh emerged victorious after a closely contested tournament, defeating a strong field of international players to become the youngest challenger to the world chess title.

In the final round, Gukesh used the black pieces to hold rival championship contender Hikaru Nakamura to a draw, securing his victory. Gukesh finished half a point ahead of seasoned players like Ian Nepomniachtchi, Fabiano Caruana, and Nakamura, defying expectations and predictions from former world champion Magnus Carlsen.

Gukesh's triumph marks a significant milestone in his chess career and is expected to further boost his rise in the global chess rankings. He is only the second Indian player to win the Candidates Tournament, after Viswanathan Anand's victory in 2014. Gukesh broke the record set by the legendary Garry Kasparov 40 years ago to become the youngest title contender in history.

Why this matters: Gukesh's historic achievement is a major milestone for Indian chess and is expected to inspire aspiring chess players across the country. A victory over reigning world champion Ding Liren of China in the upcoming World Chess Championship match could make Gukesh the youngest world champion ever.

Following his triumph, Gukesh took the time to sign autographs for his enthusiastic fans who had gathered to celebrate his achievement. Upon his return to Chennai, India, Gukesh received a rousing welcome, with hundreds of supporters, including students from his school, Velammal Vidyalaya, gathering at the airport to greet him.

Gukesh expressed his happiness and gratitude for the support he received from his family, coach, friends, and the Tamil Nadu government. "I am very happy to win the Candidates Tournament and become the challenger for the World Chess Championship," Gukesh said. "I believed from the start that I could win the Candidates. A conversation with world champion Magnus Carlsen had been helpful for me."

Gukesh's performance at the Candidates tournament has been praised for his level-headedness and ability to remain in control under high-stakes conditions. His coach, Vishnu Prasanna, and parents, Rajinikanth and Padma, played a critical role in helping Gukesh regain his confidence and focus throughout the event.

The chess community, including former world champions and legends of the game, reacted positively to Gukesh's historic achievement. Garry Kasparov described Gukesh's performance as 'the Indian earthquake in Toronto.' Gukesh is now set to face the reigning world champion, Ding Liren of China, in the coming months, a match that is expected to captivate the chess world.

Key Takeaways

• D Gukesh, 17, wins 2024 FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto.
• Gukesh becomes the youngest challenger for the world chess title.
• Gukesh's triumph is a milestone for Indian chess and inspires aspiring players.
• Gukesh receives a rousing welcome in Chennai after his historic achievement.
• Gukesh set to face reigning world champion Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship.