Top 10 Interesting Facts About Dommaraju Gukesh, Youngest Ever World Chess Champion - In Pics

At just 18, Gukesh Dommaraju shattered records to become the youngest World Chess Champion ever, surpassing Garry Kasparov’s 22-year milestone.

Gukesh began his chess journey at seven, learning the game at Chennai’s Velammal School. His talent was evident from Standard 1 when his coach Bhaskar V spotted his potential.

Gukesh left formal education after Standard 4 to focus solely on chess. His disciplined routine at Vijayanand Chess Academy honed his skills through rigorous training and solving 70 chess puzzles daily.

In an unconventional approach, coach Vishnu Prasanna barred Gukesh from using chess engines until reaching a certain rating, sharpening his analytical and strategic precision.

Gukesh is mentored by five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand. Under Anand’s guidance at the Westbridge Chess Academy, Gukesh’s game evolved, setting him on the path to greatness.

Gukesh became India’s youngest Grandmaster at 12 years, seven months, and 17 days in 2019, solidifying his position as a chess prodigy in the global arena.

In 2023, Gukesh dethroned Viswanathan Anand as India’s top-ranked player in the FIDE rankings, marking the first time in 36 years someone surpassed the chess icon.

Gukesh enlisted Paddy Upton, the renowned mental conditioning coach, whose expertise helped refine his psychological resilience, vital for his World Chess Championship success.

Gukesh clinched victory in the 2024 Candidates Tournament at 17, becoming the youngest-ever winner. This achievement paved the way for his championship match against Ding Liren.

After defeating Ding Liren, Gukesh expressed deep respect for the Chinese grandmaster, acknowledging his legendary status and resilience in the face of intense pressure.