Gukesh Dommaraju Becomes Youngest World Chess Champion: Kasparov Responds to 'End of Chess' Claims by Kramnik

In a historic moment for the chess world, Gukesh Dommaraju, also known as D Gukesh, has etched his name in the annals of chess history by becoming the youngest chess world champion. At just 18 years old, Gukesh’s remarkable achievement has garnered global praise, including from chess legend Garry Kasparov, who celebrated the young prodigy's victory while addressing recent criticisms about the state of competitive chess.

My congratulations to @DGukesh on his victory today. He has summitted the highest peak of all: making his mother happy!

— Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) December 12, 2024

Kasparov Congratulates Gukesh

Garry Kasparov, often considered one of the greatest chess players of all time, took to social media to commend Gukesh for his outstanding performance in the FIDE World Chess Championship 2024. Highlighting the emotional aspect of the victory, Kasparov wrote, “He has summitted the highest peak of all: making his mother happy.”

Kasparov praised Gukesh’s journey, noting his resilience in overcoming challenges and opponents despite his young age. "Gukesh impressively surmounted every obstacle and opponent in his path, especially considering his age, and nothing more can be asked," Kasparov remarked.

Addressing Kramnik's Criticism

The championship was not without controversy. Former chess world champion Vladimir Kramnik criticized the quality of play during the final match between Gukesh and Ding Liren, calling it the "end of chess as we know it" due to perceived blunders by both players.

Kasparov, however, strongly disagreed with Kramnik’s assessment, arguing that mistakes are an inherent part of high-stakes chess. “The level of play was quite high, at least equal to the previous match. Ding showed great resistance. As for the blunders, which world championship, or world champion, was without them? Matches take a toll," Kasparov stated, referencing notable errors from past championships, including the 2014 clash between Magnus Carlsen and Viswanathan Anand.

India’s Chess Revolution

Kasparov emphasized that Gukesh’s preparation and strategic brilliance were key to his success. “Gukesh was well-prepared, and the player who played the best won the match," he said. The victory, Kasparov added, caps off a phenomenal year for Indian chess.

India’s dominance in the global chess arena has been evident, with notable performances in recent Chess Olympiads and the emergence of a new generation of talent often referred to as "Vishy’s children," in honor of Viswanathan Anand, India’s first world chess champion.

A Bright Future for Gukesh and Indian Chess

Kasparov expressed optimism for the future of chess in India, underscoring the country’s vast talent pool and potential for further achievements. “The future is bright not only in chess. The summit has been reached, and now the goal must be to raise it even higher for the next ascent. Congratulations again. Upward!”

The victory by Gukesh D is expected to inspire a new wave of interest in chess, particularly in India, a nation that has consistently produced world-class players such as Vidit Gujrathi and Praggnanandhaa.

A Game-Changing Year for Chess

As the 2024 chess championship season concludes, Gukesh’s triumph marks a turning point in the sport. His battle against Ding Liren showcased determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite the criticism, the championship has reaffirmed the enduring appeal and complexity of chess as a game of intellect and strategy.