Gukesh Becomes the Youngest World Chess Champion in History

The 2024 World Chess Championship concluded in thrilling fashion as Gukesh Dommaraju defeated reigning champion Ding Liren, securing his place in history as the youngest World Chess Champion of all time. The closely contested match, held in Singapore from November 25 to December 12, showcased a dramatic battle of nerves, culminating in Gukesh’s decisive victory in the 14th and final classical game.

Coming into Game 14, Gukesh was under significant pressure, having faced a tough Game 13 where Ding pushed him to his limits. Despite the challenges, Gukesh managed to hold his ground and secure a critical draw. In Game 14, he had to defend with the black pieces against the former world champion, adding to the intensity of the decisive clash.

Game 14: Gukesh Seals the Title with Black Pieces

The final game of the match began with Ding playing 1. Nf3, signaling a strategic and cautious approach. However, Gukesh, with the black pieces, demonstrated his intent to fight for the title. Employing the King’s Indian Attack setup, the game transitioned into a highly dynamic middlegame where both players navigated complex pawn structures and piece placements.

Ding attempted to create pressure on the queenside with an aggressive pawn push. Gukesh countered adeptly, trading pieces to simplify the position. His critical move came in the middlegame when he exchanged bishops, leaving Ding with limited active options. This transition into a King-pawn endgame left Gukesh a pawn up, a crucial material advantage that he masterfully converted into a win.

Gukesh’s endgame technique was precise and deliberate. He capitalized on his material advantage and strategically advanced his pawns while keeping Ding’s king restricted. As the tension grew, Gukesh’s composure never wavered, and he skillfully outmaneuvered his opponent to force resignation. With this victory, Gukesh clinched the match 7½–6½, dethroning Ding Liren and marking the beginning of a new era in chess.

The Road to Victory: Challenges and Triumphs

Gukesh’s journey to becoming the youngest World Chess Champion was nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a prodigious talent, his rapid rise in the chess world caught the attention of experts and fans alike. Ranked fifth in the FIDE standings with an Elo rating of 2783 at the start of the championship, Gukesh faced immense pressure and scrutiny.