Gukesh Dommaraju, known as Gukesh D, is a remarkable Indian chess grandmaster born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai. As of December 12, 2024, he made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion at just 18 years old. His journey in chess began at the age of seven when he learned the game from his first coach, Mr. Bhaskar, at Velammal Vidyalaya school.
Early Life and Education
Gukesh was born into a family that valued education and hard work. His father, Dr. Rajinikanth, is an ear, nose, and throat surgeon, while his mother, Dr. Padma, is a microbiologist. They supported Gukesh's passion for chess from the start. He attended Velammal Vidyalaya in Chennai, which has produced many talented chess players.Gukesh's interest in chess grew quickly. After just six months of training, he achieved his first FIDE rating of 1291. He participated in local tournaments and began to gain recognition for his skills.Gukesh D Age, Height, Biography, Stats, Net Worth, Education
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gukesh Dommaraju |
| Date of Birth | May 29, 2006 |
| Place of Birth | Chennai, India |
| Parents | Dr. Rajinikanth (ENT Surgeon), Dr. Padma (Microbiologist) |
| Chess Start Age | 7 years old |
| First Coach | Mr. Bhaskar |
| Major Achievements | - Youngest World Chess Champion (2024) |
| - Won the Candidates Tournament (2024) | |
| - World Under-12 Champion (2018) | |
| - Five Gold Medals at Asian Youth Chess Championships (2018) | |
| Grandmaster Title | Achieved at age 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days (January 15, 2019) |
| FIDE Rating Milestones | - Youngest player to reach a rating of 2750 (2023) |
| - Ranked first in India and eighth in the world (September 2023) | |
| World Championship Match | Defeated Ding Liren to become World Champion on December 12, 2024 |
| Personal Interests | Enjoys cricket and badminton; values family time |
| Future Aspirations | Aims to defend his title and inspire young chess players worldwide |
Rise to Prominence
In 2015, Gukesh won the Under-9 section of the Asian School Chess Championships. This victory marked the beginning of his success in chess competitions. By 2018, he had won multiple titles at the Asian Youth Chess Championships and the World Youth Chess Championship in the Under-12 category.In March 2017, Gukesh earned the title of International Master at just 11 years old. His big breakthrough came on January 15, 2019, when he became a Grandmaster at the age of 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days. This achievement made him the second-youngest Grandmaster in history at that time.17-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh is the Champion of FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024!!
Gukesh scored 9/14 points to clinch the first place. A huge moment for Indian Chess! After Vishy Anand, he is only the second Indian player to win the Candidates Tournament.
With this… pic.twitter.com/RiaVAZyj0u
— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) April 22, 2024
17-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh is the Champion of FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024!!
Gukesh scored 9/14 points to clinch the first place. A huge moment for Indian Chess! After Vishy Anand, he is only the second Indian player to win the Candidates Tournament.
With this… pic.twitter.com/RiaVAZyj0u
Continued Success
Gukesh continued to excel in various tournaments after becoming a Grandmaster. In June 2021, he won the Julius Baer Challengers Chess Tour and scored impressively in other competitions. His dedication to chess was evident as he played numerous games across different countries.In August 2023, Gukesh reached a FIDE rating of 2750, becoming the youngest player ever to do so. He also surpassed Viswanathan Anand to become India's top-rated player after Anand held that position for over 37 years.The Candidates Tournament
In April 2024, Gukesh made headlines by winning the Candidates Tournament held in Toronto. This victory was significant as it made him the youngest-ever challenger for the World Chess Championship title. He scored an impressive 9 out of 14 points during this tournament.His performance was not just about winning; it showcased his strategic thinking and resilience under pressure. Gukesh's success in this tournament solidified his status as one of the brightest talents in chess.World Chess Championship Victory
On December 12, 2024, Gukesh faced reigning champion Ding Liren in a highly anticipated match for the World Chess Championship. After a grueling three-week battle filled with intense games and psychological challenges, Gukesh emerged victorious with a score of 7.5 to 6.5.This win not only made him the youngest World Champion but also marked him as only the second Indian to hold this prestigious title after Viswanathan Anand. Gukesh's achievement inspired many young chess players across India and around the world.Personal Life
Despite his busy schedule as a top player, Gukesh maintains a balanced life. He enjoys spending time with family and friends and participates in other sports like cricket and badminton. His parents have played a crucial role in supporting his chess career while ensuring he has a well-rounded upbringing.Gukesh's story is one of determination and passion for chess. From learning at a young age to becoming a world champion at just 18 years old, he has shown that hard work can lead to incredible achievements.Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Gukesh aims to continue improving his game and defending his title as World Champion. He hopes to inspire more young players to take up chess and pursue their dreams in this challenging yet rewarding sport.His journey is far from over; with each tournament and match, Gukesh continues to make history and set new records in the world of chess. His dedication serves as an inspiration to many aspiring chess players around the globe.In conclusion, Gukesh Dommaraju's rise from a young boy learning chess to becoming the youngest World Champion is an inspiring tale of talent and hard work. His achievements have put Indian chess on the global map and have created a legacy that will motivate future generations of players.Frequently Asked Questions about Gukesh Dommaraju
1. Who is Gukesh Dommaraju?Gukesh Dommaraju is an Indian chess grandmaster who became the youngest World Chess Champion at the age of 18 on December 12, 2024. He defeated reigning champion Ding Liren in a thrilling match held in Singapore.
2. When did Gukesh Become a Grandmaster?
Gukesh earned his grandmaster title on January 15, 2019, at the age of 12 years and 7 months, making him one of the youngest grandmasters in history.
Gukesh earned his grandmaster title on January 15, 2019, at the age of 12 years and 7 months, making him one of the youngest grandmasters in history.
3. What are some of Gukesh's Major Achievements?
Gukesh has won numerous titles, including:
In the championship match, Gukesh and Ding Liren entered the final game with an equal score. Gukesh capitalized on a critical mistake made by Ding during the endgame, winning the match with a score of 7.5 to 6.5.
Gukesh has won numerous titles, including:
- The Candidates Tournament in April 2024.
- Individual gold medals in the last two Chess Olympiads.
- The World Youth Chess Championship in the Under-12 category in 2018.
In the championship match, Gukesh and Ding Liren entered the final game with an equal score. Gukesh capitalized on a critical mistake made by Ding during the endgame, winning the match with a score of 7.5 to 6.5.
5. What is Gukesh's FIDE Rating?
As of August 2023, Gukesh reached a FIDE rating of 2750, making him the youngest player ever to achieve this milestone.
As of August 2023, Gukesh reached a FIDE rating of 2750, making him the youngest player ever to achieve this milestone.
6. What is Gukesh's Net Worth?
Gukesh's net worth is estimated to be over ₹20 crore (approximately $2.4 million) after his recent championship victory.
Gukesh's net worth is estimated to be over ₹20 crore (approximately $2.4 million) after his recent championship victory.
7. How has Gukesh Impacted Indian Chess?
Gukesh's victory has brought immense pride to India and has reinforced its reputation as a chess powerhouse. He is only the second Indian to hold the World Chess Champion title after Viswanathan Anand.
Gukesh's victory has brought immense pride to India and has reinforced its reputation as a chess powerhouse. He is only the second Indian to hold the World Chess Champion title after Viswanathan Anand.
8. What are Gukesh's Future Plans?
Gukesh aims to defend his title in future championships and hopes to inspire young chess players worldwide with his achievements and dedication to the sport.
Gukesh aims to defend his title in future championships and hopes to inspire young chess players worldwide with his achievements and dedication to the sport.