D Gukesh, 17, Wins Candidates Tournament to Become Youngest World Chess Championship Challenger

D Gukesh, a 17-year-old chess prodigy from Chennai, India, has made history by winning the prestigious 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament in Toronto, Canada. Gukesh's victory makes him the youngest player ever to secure a spot in the World Chess Championship match, where he will face the reigning champion, Ding Liren of China, later this year.

Gukesh's triumph at the Candidates Tournament came after a hard-fought battle against a field of seasoned players, including Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, and Ian Nepomniachtchi. Despite facing a heartbreaking loss to Alireza Firouzja in the seventh round, Gukesh bounced back with determination, winning three games and drawing four in the last seven rounds to secure the title.

Upon his return to Chennai, Gukesh was greeted by hundreds of supporters, including students from his school, Velammal Vidyalaya. In an interview, the young grandmaster expressed his happiness and gratitude for the support he received from his family, coach, friends, and the Tamil Nadu government. He also thanked his sponsor and school for their role in his success.

Why this matters: Gukesh's victory marks a significant milestone in the chess world, as he breaks the record set by the legendary Garry Kasparov 40 years ago to become the youngest challenger for the world chess title. His achievement also highlights the rising prominence of young Indian chess players on the global stage, with Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa leading the charge.

Gukesh revealed that a casual chat with the current world champion, Magnus Carlsen, had been helpful for him during the tournament. The young prodigy also shared insights into his mentality and approach to the game, emphasizing the importance of focus, discipline, and a balanced routine that includes meditation, yoga, and physical activities to help him stay in the 'zone' during competitions.

Looking ahead to the World Chess Championship match against Ding Liren, Gukesh remains focused and determined. "I believed from the start that I could win the Candidates," he said, expressing his confidence in his abilities and his goal to become the youngest world champion in history.

Key Takeaways

• D Gukesh, 17, wins 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, youngest to reach World Chess Championship
• Gukesh defeats seasoned players like Nakamura, Caruana, and Nepomniachtchi to secure the title
• Gukesh's victory marks a significant milestone, breaking Kasparov's record set 40 years ago
• Gukesh credits his success to focus, discipline, and a balanced routine including meditation and yoga
• Gukesh expresses confidence in his abilities and aims to become the youngest world champion