17-YEAR-OLD INDIAN PRODIGY, MAKES CHESS HISTORY

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After emerging victorious in a significant Canadian event, a 17-year-old Indian player will make history as the youngest contender for the World Chess Championship title.

Gukesh Dommaraju, who became the youngest player to win the coveted Candidates Tournament, will go on to challenge the current Chinese champion, Ding Liren, for another opportunity to make history.

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“I’m just so relieved, so happy following this crazy game,” Gukesh said following his landmark triumph in Toronto on Sunday.

“I was in the right mindset throughout the event. From start to end, I was in good spirits, fully motivated and I really wanted to win the event.”

A grandmaster since he was 12, he is now set to be the “youngest World Chess Championship challenger in history”, the International Chess Federation said.

The teenager responded, “I don’t really care about the youngest and all these records, but it’s a nice thing to say,” when asked how he felt about his historical accomplishments.

“At the moment, my main happiness is that I won the tournament.”

According to Indian media, Gukesh missed being the youngest grandmaster in the world by 17 days, but he did become the youngest grandmaster in India at the age of 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days.

Magnus Carlsen, the repeated world champion from Norway, was not among the eight competitors who began play on April 4 in Toronto.

“India is exceptionally proud of Gukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the FIDE Candidates!” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X.

“Gukesh’s remarkable achievement at the Candidates in Toronto showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication.

“His outstanding performance and journey to the top inspires millions.”

The date and location of the world championship showdown have yet to be announced.

AFP