Chess Grandmaster Gukesh, a FRIENDS superfan, is now world's youngest chess champion

At just 18 years old, Gukesh Dommaraju has etched his name into the annals of chess gaming history, becoming the youngest ever to claim the undisputed World Chess Championship title.

By defeating reigning champion Ding Liren on Thursday in the 14th and last game of what was a see-saw battle, Gukesh not only achieved the ultimate glory in chess but also solidified his place as one of the brightest prodigies the game has ever seen.

His victory is being hailed as a historic moment for India and the chess world alike.


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Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai to a doctor father and a microbiologist mother, Gukesh’s journey in chess began at the age of seven. Inspired by witnessing Viswanathan Anand's world championship match against Magnus Carlsen in 2013, Gukesh's passion for the Chess game ignited.

By 12 years, seven months, and 17 days, he had become India’s second-youngest grandmaster, and one of the youngest in chess game history—a feat that hinted at the greatness to come.

Under the mentorship of Anand, Gukesh rapidly rose through the ranks, blending prodigious talent with an unyielding work ethic.

His victory at the prestigious Candidates Tournament earlier this year not only earned him a spot at the world championship but also made him the youngest ever to win the tournament.

By clinching the world title, Gukesh shattered the record held by Garry Kasparov, who was 22 when he became champion in 1985. Gukesh’s achievement adds another chapter to India’s growing chess legacy, one that began with Anand and now finds its successor in this unassuming, soft-spoken teenager.

His path to the title was nothing short of extraordinary. Gukesh’s calm demeanor and strategic brilliance outmaneuvered Ding, who entered the championship with significant doubts about his form. Over the course of 14 classical Chess games, Gukesh demonstrated maturity beyond his years, seizing decisive moments to secure the crown.

Beyond Chess: The man behind the champion

Despite his meteoric rise, Gukesh remains grounded and level-headed. Publicly reserved and modest, he deflects predictions and hype, focusing instead on enjoying the process of playing the game he loves. "I was dreaming this moment for the last 10 years. I am happy that I realised the dream (and made it) into reality," the soft-spoken Chennai-lad told reporters after the historic triumph here.

"I got a bit emotional because I was not expecting to win. But then I got a chance to press on," he added.

Off the board, Gukesh has shown glimpses of his personality that endear him to fans. A devoted fan of the sitcom Friends, he recently surprised his followers by posting a video of himself dancing exuberantly after India’s strong performance at the Chess Olympiad. He also stays connected to his roots, often sporting a tilak during games as a nod to his Hindu faith.

The legacy begins

Gukesh’s triumph has been widely celebrated, with Indian chess legend Anand hailing him as his natural successor. “I am very, very proud that he has managed this phenomenal achievement. In a way, I feel like I have passed the baton,” Anand had said .

Even Magnus Carlsen, who labeled Gukesh as the favorite before the match, acknowledged the teenager's brilliance, stating, “He has proven himself to be the best in the world.”

PM Modi hailed Gukesh's historic win and called it a result of his 'unparalleled talent'.