Chess Marvel: Chennai’s Dommaraju Gukesh makes waves as youngest Candidates winner

Chennai: People from all walks of life, including the chess community, went into a frenzy as they hailed India’s Dommaraju Gukesh as a potential ‘future world champion’ after he etched his name in the history books by winning the prestigious Candidates Tournament 2024 in Toronto.

A 17-year-old Gukesh drew with American Hikaru Nakamura in the final round to not only win the prestigious tournament but also become the youngest-ever challenger to the world title. He also became the youngest World Championship challenger and only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to clinch the Candidates trophy.

The Chennai-based teen will take on reigning world champion, China’s Ding Liren, for the crown later this year.

The Telugu connection

Gukesh was born into a Telugu family in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His parents hail from the Godavari delta region of Andhra Pradesh. His father Rajinikanth is an ENT surgeon and his mother Padma is a microbiologist.

Gukesh is the third youngest player in history to earn the Grandmaster title at the age of 12. English grandmaster David Howell said he knew the prodigiously talented player would go on to do great things from the moment he played his first match against the Indian.

“Congrats to Gukesh on winning the Candidates!! What a tournament I knew he was special ever since our first game. He was just 12 years old (but already a GM!) While analysing, both his mature attitude and his calculation skills impressed me hugely. Future world champ?” Howell wrote.

Viswanathan Anand, Modi congratulate Gukesh

Five-time world champion and the only other Indian to win the Candidates, the legendary Viswanathan Anand, was one of the first people to congratulate the teenager.

“Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done. I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment,” Anand wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed Gukesh’s inspirational win.

“India is exceptionally proud of @DGukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the #FIDECandidates! Gukesh’s remarkable achievement at the Candidates in Toronto showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication. His outstanding performance and journey to the top inspires millions,” PM Modi tweeted.

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar also congratulated Gukesh for his stupendous feat.

“What a triumph, @DGukesh! The youngest ever to win the FIDE Candidates-at only 17! Your journey from here leads to the World Championship, and we’ll be with you at every move. Go make history! #FIDECandidates,” Tendulkar tweeted.

Former world champion and Grandmaster Vladimir Kramnik of Russia congratulated Gukesh for his astounding performance. Industrialist Anand Mahindra predicted a long and shining future for Gukesh.