Viswanathan Anand congratulates D Gukesh for FIDE World Championship win
What's the story
Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has scripted history by becoming the youngest-ever Fide World Championship winner at just 18 years of age. He won the coveted title after defeating China's Ding Liren in the crucial Game 14 of the event in Singapore on December 12. The win is a major milestone for Indian chess as Gukesh becomes the second Indian to win the title after Viswanathan Anand's 2000 win.
Praise
Anand and other sports legends laud Gukesh's victory
A mentor and inspiration for innumerable players, Anand expressed his joy in a heartfelt message. He also praised both Gukesh and Ding Liren for their performances. Other sporting legends also joined in celebrating Gukesh's remarkable achievement. Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra praised Gukesh's composure under pressure, saying "You've not just won a title but inspired a generation to dream big." Another Olympic gold medalist, Neeraj Chopra, also congratulated Gukesh on his historic win.
Accolades
Political leaders and chess legends celebrate Gukesh's achievement
President Draupadi Murmu also joined the nation in celebrating Gukesh's success. Chess legend Judit Polgar called Gukesh "the youngest king," while Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya praised his dedication and hard work that made the nation proud. The widespread recognition of Gukesh's monumental achievement underscores its significance not just for Indian chess, but also as a testament to the rising prominence of young talent on the global stage.
Twitter Post
Twitter Post
Congratulations! It's a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, a proud moment for WACA, and for me, a very personal moment of pride. Ding played a very exciting match and showed the champion he is.@FIDE_chess @WacaChess pic.twitter.com/o3hq26JFPf
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) December 12, 2024
Twitter Post
Twitter Post
Congratulations, Gukesh! 👏
— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) December 12, 2024
The best in the world and the youngest to ever do it. India is proud! 🇮🇳 https://t.co/PNfXVBf02R