D Gukesh became the youngest-ever FIDE World Chess Champion after defeating China's Ding Liren in the decisive Game 14 on Thursday, December 12, in Singapore. He is only the second Indian to achieve this remarkable feat, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand. (Match Highlights)

The Indian prodigy, playing with black, made a strong start, but as the game progressed, it seemed to be heading toward a draw. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Liren, who was defending his title, made a costly blunder on the 55th move by moving his rook to f2.

Gukesh quickly capitalized, turning it into a king-and-pawn endgame. Liren, realizing his mistake, accepted defeat and resigned, allowing Gukesh to claim the special victory.

"I was totally in shock when I realized I made a blunder," said Ding Liren after the loss. But this won't stop the 32-year-old from playing the game he loves, 'I'll continue to play," he said.

For Gukesh, spotting Ding Liren's mistake was "the best moment" of his life. After the game, in a press conference, the young Indian prodigy shared his thoughts:

"We all know who Ding is. He has been one of the best players in history for several years. To see him struggling and see under how much pressure he faced, and the fight he gave... To me he is a real world champion. He fought like a true champion, and I'm really sorry for Ding and his team. I would like to thank my opponent first - this could not have been the same without him.

"I've been dreaming about this and living this moment since I was 6 or 7. Every chess player wants to live this moment - and to be one of them is .... I'm living my dream. I'd like to thank God - this whole journey - from Candidates till here could only be possible by God.

“I'm really thankful to all the people who've been by my side in this journey. I want to thank everyone, but the kind of emotions I'm feeling right now.. I'll say something stupid.”

“Representing my country.. 11 years back the title was taken away from India. When I was watching in 2013, looking into the glass box, I thought it'd be so cool to be there one day. I had the dream 10 years ago of bringing the title back. There's nothing better than this,” he added.

With this victory, Gukesh has gone past Garry Kasparov, who previously held the record for being the youngest champion.

D Gukesh - 18 year 8 months 14 day - December 12, 2024

Garry Kasparov - 22 years 6 months 27 days - November 9, 1985.