17-year-old Dommaraju Gukesh scripts history, becomes youngest-ever to win Fide Candidates

India’s 17-year-old chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh scripted history on Monday to become the youngest player ever to win the FIDE Candidates tournament. Gukesh earned the right to challenge the reigning champion, Ding Liren of China, for the World Chess Championship.

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In the finals, the 17-year-old Gukesh drew his last game against American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura to clinch the top position at Candidates 2024 with 9/14 points.

With this, Gukesh became the second after Viswanathan Anand to win the FIDE Candidates. In doing so, Gukesh also surpassed the legendary Garry Kasparov, who held the record previously since 1984.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated the chess prodigy on his win. In a post on X, he wrote, “India is exceptionally proud of Gukesh D on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the FIDE Candidates. 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.”

Gukesh hails from Chennai, and aims to be the world’s top ranked chess player.