D Gukesh’s triumph at the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto has made him the youngest challenger to the world title. Upon his arrival at the Chennai airport, Gukesh was greeted by a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, including students from his school, Velammal Vidyalaya, and members of the general public. The 17-year-old chess prodigy was garlanded and escorted safely by the police amidst jubilant cheers. Expressing his happiness at the homecoming, Gukesh acknowledged the support and role played by his family, coach, friends, and school in his triumph.
Gukesh’s victory marks a significant milestone in Indian chess history, as he is only the second Indian after the legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the Candidates Tournament. His achievement has been widely lauded, with former world champion Garry Kasparov calling it “the Indian earthquake in Toronto.” Gukesh’s triumph entitles him to a contest against reigning world champion Ding Liren of China in the last quarter of the year.
A microbiologist by profession, Gukesh’s mother Padma, was present at the airport to receive him along with other family members. Gukesh’s father Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon who quit his practice to support his son’s chess career, had traveled with him to Canada for the tournament.
Gukesh’s journey to becoming the youngest world title challenger has been remarkable. He became India’s youngest Grandmaster at the age of 12 years, seven months, and 17 days in January 2019. Currently, he has a FIDE rating of 2743, with his peak rating being 2758, which he attained last September. Gukesh is currently ranked 16th in the FIDE Rankings, with his best ranking being eighth, which he reached last September.
Gukesh’s success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent. He is an inspiration to young chess players around the world and his achievement is a source of pride for India.
