Chess legend Garry Kasparov hailed D. Gukesh’s historic World Chess Championship victory on December 12 as a landmark moment for Indian chess and a continuation of Viswanathan Anand’s lasting legacy. At just 18, Gukesh became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, defeating Ding Liren in the decisive 14th game of the match in Singapore, clinching a 7.5-6.5 victory.
Kasparov, who had held the record for the youngest world champion for nearly four decades, offered his heartfelt congratulations to Gukesh. The Indian Grandmaster capitalized on Ding’s blunder in the final classical game, showcasing his remarkable focus and composure during critical moments. “He has reached the highest peak of all: making his mother proud!” Kasparov remarked. “Gukesh overcame every challenge, especially given his age, and this victory is a testament to his tremendous skill.”
The Russian icon also emphasized that Gukesh’s triumph was not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the transformative influence of Viswanathan Anand on Indian chess. “The era of ‘Vishy’s children’ is truly upon us!” Kasparov exclaimed, acknowledging the generation of Indian players, including Gukesh, who grew up idolizing Anand and benefitted from his mentorship.
Gukesh is part of the first batch of the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy, founded by Anand in 2020. His win adds to a phenomenal year for Indian chess, as it coincides with the country’s unprecedented success at the Chess Olympiad. Gukesh began the year by winning the Candidates Tournament and capped it with the World Championship title.
Kasparov also urged India to build on its current momentum, saying, “The summit has been reached; now the goal must be to aim even higher for the next ascent.” He likened India’s resurgence in chess to the return of the game to its birthplace and emphasized the need to continue progressing.
Kasparov’s words resonated with his earlier comments on India’s historic double gold at the 2024 Chess Olympiad, where he celebrated the country’s rise as a chess superpower. Four Indian players are now ranked in the top 20 of the FIDE classical chess rankings. In addition to Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi is in the top 5 and became only the second Indian, after Anand, to breach the 2800 Elo rating earlier this year.
While Kasparov had previously downplayed the significance of the World Chess Championship due to Magnus Carlsen’s decision not to compete, he acknowledged the strong performance of both Gukesh and Ding in Singapore, commending their spirited efforts and giving them the credit they deserved.
