Gukesh’s Journey: From Leaving School in Class IV to Becoming the Youngest World Chess Champion

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D Gukesh: The Youngest World Chess Champion and a Tale of Sacrifice, Resilience, and Triumph

At just seven years old, D Gukesh envisioned a dream that seemed almost impossible—to become the world chess champion. Fast forward 11 years, and the now 18-year-old not only fulfilled that dream but also etched his name in history as the youngest chess world champion. Gukesh became the second Indian to claim the prestigious title, following in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand. His dramatic victory against defending champion Ding Liren of China in a nail-biting 14-game series stands as a monumental achievement, reflecting years of relentless hard work, family sacrifice, and unwavering determination.

The Defining Moment of Triumph

When Gukesh secured 7.5 points against Ding’s 6.5 to clinch the title, the moment was surreal for his family. His parents, Rajinikanth and Padma Kumari, were overwhelmed with emotion. Gukesh’s tear-filled eyes and his father’s look of disbelief spoke volumes about the journey they had endured. Their emotional embrace moments after his victory symbolized not just pride but the culmination of sacrifices and challenges faced along the way.

A Family’s Unwavering Commitment

Behind Gukesh’s meteoric rise to glory lies a story of immense family support. His father, Dr. Rajinikanth, an accomplished ENT surgeon, made a life-altering decision in 2017—he gave up his profession to accompany Gukesh in his quest to achieve the final Grandmaster (GM) norm. Meanwhile, his mother, Padma Kumari, a microbiologist, became the sole breadwinner, shouldering the financial burden to ensure Gukesh could pursue his passion without constraints.

Financial challenges often loomed large. “We weren’t a well-off family, and my parents made countless sacrifices for me. At one point, in 2017-18, we were running so low on money that my parents’ friends stepped in to sponsor me,” Gukesh revealed. Despite these difficulties, his parents never let him falter. They adopted a minimalist lifestyle and tirelessly supported his dream.

The Early Steps and Rapid Ascent

Gukesh’s chess journey began in 2013 with just three lessons a week, each lasting only an hour. Coincidentally, this was the same year Viswanathan Anand lost his world title to Magnus Carlsen, unknowingly passing the torch to a budding Indian prodigy.

From winning gold at the Under-9 Asian School Chess Championship to clinching the Under-12 World Youth Chess Championship in 2018, Gukesh’s potential was evident early on. Recognizing this, his parents made the bold decision to halt his full-time schooling after Class IV, allowing him to focus entirely on chess.

In 2019, Gukesh achieved a major milestone by becoming the second-youngest Grandmaster in history at the time. Though this record was later broken by Abhimanyu Mishra, Gukesh’s consistent rise in the chess world remained unstoppable.

Facing Adversity Without Sponsorship

Despite his talent, financial support often eluded Gukesh. He competed in tournaments worldwide without consistent sponsorship, relying on prize money and crowdfunding efforts led by his parents. These challenges, however, only strengthened his resolve. In 2023, Gukesh surpassed his idol Viswanathan Anand to become India’s No. 1 chess player, signaling a new era in Indian chess.

Guidance from Viswanathan Anand and COVID-19 Lessons

A turning point in Gukesh’s career came during the COVID-19 pandemic when he joined the WestBridge-Anand Chess Academy, founded by Viswanathan Anand. Under Anand’s mentorship, Gukesh honed his skills and developed a strategic edge that proved invaluable during a time when global activities were on hold.

“Training under Anand during the pandemic allowed me to fine-tune my skills and maintain focus on chess. His insights and experience made a huge difference,” Gukesh said, crediting his mentor for shaping his approach to the game.

Historic Victory Over Ding Liren

Gukesh’s climactic victory against Ding Liren was a masterclass in resilience and strategy. The series tested his mental strength as much as his chess skills, with each move scrutinized by fans and experts worldwide. In the end, his grit and preparation paid off, marking a defining moment in his career.

An Inspirational Legacy

Gukesh’s journey from a determined seven-year-old to the youngest world chess champion is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a story that inspires young aspirants across the globe. His rise underscores the power of perseverance, family support, and the ability to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

Beyond his individual success, Gukesh’s victory also highlights the growing prominence of Indian chess on the global stage, reigniting the legacy started by Viswanathan Anand. As Gukesh steps into the spotlight as a world champion, his story serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that dreams, no matter how distant, are achievable with hard work and determination.

What’s Next for Gukesh?

As the youngest world champion, Gukesh now carries the responsibility of defending his title and representing a new generation of chess players. With plans to participate in major international tournaments and inspire more young talents in India, Gukesh is poised to leave an enduring legacy in the world of chess.

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