CHENNAI, India – Gukesh Dommaraju, the youngest chess world champion in history, arrived at Chennai International Airport to jubilant scenes on Monday, December 30, 2024, after his stunning victory over defending champion Ding Liren in Singapore last week.
The 18-year-old Indian chess prodigy defeated Ding 7.5-6.5 in a best-of-14 final, clinching the title after the Chinese grandmaster blundered in the decisive game.
Draped in the Indian flag and clutching his trophy, Gukesh was met by hundreds of ecstatic fans, chanting his name and celebrating his monumental achievement.
“Thank you for all the support. It means a lot to bring back the trophy to India,” Gukesh told reporters at the airport.
“You guys are amazing. You gave me so much energy. Looking forward to meeting you all and celebrating together.”
A Rock Star’s Welcome
The airport resembled a festival as crowds gathered with banners, confetti, and even performers on stilts to welcome their champion.
Gukesh arrived and departed in a personalised car emblazoned with the words: “The new king in the kingdom of chess!”
At his alma mater in Chennai, students celebrated with dance, music, and chants of support for the young champion.
The scenes of joy underscored the pride felt across India for the teen’s historic achievement.
Gukesh’s celebration extended beyond India.
After his victory in Singapore, the chess star marked the moment with a bungee jump, a symbolic leap commemorating his meteoric rise in the chess world.
Breaking Records and Making History
Gukesh’s victory shattered a 38-year-old record held by Garry Kasparov, who was 22 years old when he became world champion in 1985.
The Indian star is also only the second Indian player to win the title, following five-time world champion and fellow Chennai native Viswanathan Anand.
An emotional Gukesh broke into tears after securing his win against Ding, cementing his place as one of the brightest young talents in the history of the game.
Congratulatory Messages and Future Plans
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Gukesh’s accomplishment, calling it “historic and exemplary.”
In a statement on Thursday, Modi said, “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 has also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence.”
The newly crowned champion met with Modi, a meeting that further highlights his significance as a national hero.
I am also delighted to have received from Gukesh the original chessboard from the game he won. The chessboard, autographed by both him and Ding Liren, is a cherished memento. pic.twitter.com/EcjpuGpYOC
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2024
Heartiest congratulations to Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. He has done India immensely proud. His victory stamps the authority of India as a chess powerhouse.
Well done Gukesh! On behalf of every Indian, I wish you sustained glory…— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 12, 2024
Looking Ahead
As Gukesh basks in the glow of his triumph, the chess world is abuzz with anticipation for his future.
With the title of world champion now under his belt, he has positioned himself as a torchbearer for a new generation of players, inspiring millions in India and beyond.
The teenager’s journey, from a chess prodigy to the youngest world champion in history, is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the game—a story that resonates deeply with a nation eager to celebrate its newest sporting icon.
