Introduction

12/12/2024 – Singapore: In a historic finale, 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju defeated Ding Liren in the 14th and final game of the 2024 World Chess Championship. With this win, Gukesh becomes the youngest undisputed world chess champion in history.

This marks a major moment for India, as the title returns for the first time since Viswanathan Anand lost it in 2013. Ding blundered in a technical endgame, allowing Gukesh to seal the match. As a result, Gukesh has now joined the ranks of legends like Kasparov and Carlsen.

A Landmark Victory for Indian Chess

Notably, Gukesh’s win signals India’s growing dominance in the global chess scene. He is now a national icon and a symbol of India’s new generation of chess talent.

While Anand wasn’t officially on Gukesh’s team, the former world champion played a key behind-the-scenes role. Anand attended a training camp and provided remote support. Gukesh praised Anand’s lasting impact and also credited his family for their support.

“We both were crying,” Gukesh said, recalling his emotional post-match call with his mother.

Inside Gukesh’s Winning Team

Meanwhile, Gukesh’s preparation was backed by a strong team of top-level experts:

• Grzegorz Gajewski (Poland)
• Radoslaw Wojtaszek (Poland)
• Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland)
• Jan Klimkowski (Poland)
• Pentala Harikrishna (India)
• Vincent Keymer (Germany)
• Paddy Upton (South Africa – mental coach)

Among them, Gajewski—nicknamed “Gaju”—played a particularly important role in strategy and preparation.

What’s Next for Gukesh?

Looking ahead, Gukesh is expected to defend his title in 2026. However, fans and analysts are already asking if Magnus Carlsen will return to reclaim the crown.

“It would be the toughest challenge there is in chess,” Gukesh said.
“I would love to test myself against the best player in the world.”