In a historic triumph, 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster (GM) D Gukesh has claimed the World Chess Championship title, defeating Chinese GM Ding Liren in the decisive Game 14 of the tournament. This victory on Thursday establishes Gukesh as the youngest world champion in chess history, marking a monumental moment in the sport.

Gukesh’s win not only secures his place in chess history but also makes him the 18th World Champion overall and the second Indian to hold the prestigious title, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand. Despite this incredible achievement, the newly-crowned champion’s ambitions remain steadfast and forward-looking.

At the post-match press conference, Gukesh expressed his desire to maintain his position at the pinnacle of chess for as long as possible. “My goal with my career has always been to be at the very top as long as possible. My career has just started and I now want to stay at the top as long as I can,” Gukesh stated.

However, Gukesh also acknowledged that holding the title of World Champion does not necessarily mean being the best player in the world. The young prodigy specifically highlighted Magnus Carlsen, the five-time World Champion from Norway, as the benchmark of greatness in the sport. “Being World Champion doesn’t mean I am the best player. There is Magnus. But, it’s motivating to know that there is always someone at a very high level, someone that will push me to keep reaching to attain the level of greatness that Magnus has achieved,” he said.

Gukesh has now set his sights on a potential face-off against Carlsen, calling it the ultimate test of his abilities. “Playing against Magnus in a World Championship would be the toughest challenge in chess. It is up to him, but I would love to test myself against him,” he declared, throwing down the gauntlet to the Norwegian superstar.

Magnus Carlsen, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in chess history, has distanced himself from the World Championship cycle in recent years. In 2022, Carlsen chose not to defend his title against Ian Nepomniachtchi, the Candidates Tournament winner, leading to a showdown between Nepomniachtchi and Ding Liren. Ding eventually claimed the title but now passes the torch to Gukesh.

Gukesh’s aspirations to face Carlsen may remain a distant dream for now, as Carlsen has shown little interest in returning to the World Championship format. Nevertheless, Gukesh’s determination and rising prowess signal a new era in chess, one that fans around the world will eagerly follow.

With this victory, the young champion has not only cemented his name in history but also ignited a fresh wave of excitement in the chess world. Whether Magnus Carlsen accepts the challenge or not, D Gukesh’s journey is one that promises to captivate and inspire.