North News
Chandigarh, December 13
History was made on the island of Sentosa in Singapore on Thursday as 18-year-old D. Gukesh became the youngest world chess champion in history. The teenager from Chennai defeated China’s Ding Liren in the final game, breaking a nearly four-decade-old record held by Russian chess legend Garry Kasparov.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh D on this historic achievement. Responding to a post by the International Chess Federation on X, Modi hailed Gukesh’s accomplishment, calling it “historic and exemplary.” Modi’s post read: “Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. His triumph has not only etched his name in the annals of chess history but also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence. My best wishes for his future endeavors. @DGukesh”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also praised Gukesh’s achievement, writing on X: “Congratulations to @DGukesh on becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion at 18! Your remarkable achievement continues India’s rich chess legacy and helps Chennai reaffirm its place as the global Chess Capital by producing yet another world-class champion. Tamil Nadu is proud of you!”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined in, tweeting: “Gukesh, you’ve made all of India proud! At just 18, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion is a phenomenal achievement. Your passion and hard work remind us that with determination, anything is possible. Congratulations, champ!”
Gukesh’s victory is a milestone in Indian chess history and underscores Chennai’s standing as a global hub for the sport.
