Nandan Jha, President of the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA), has extended heartfelt congratulations to D. Gukesh on becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. The 18-year-old Indian prodigy clinched the title by defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the decisive 14th game of the World Chess Championship.
Both players were tied at 6.5 points each after the penultimate round. Gukesh’s victory marks a historic moment for Indian chess, making him only the second Indian to claim the World Chess Championship after the legendary Viswanathan Anand.
“This is a monumental achievement for India,” said Jha. “Gukesh’s victory will undoubtedly inspire countless young people to pursue chess as a career. It’s a testament to the growing strength of Indian chess and the dedication of our young talents.”
It’s worth noting that chess is one of the nine sports recognized by the International Mind Sports Association, highlighting its intellectual depth and global appeal.
“On behalf IMSA, I share the feelings of millions of sports lovers. We will felicitate Gukesh in the days to come and do our bit to popularize chess. If V Anand’s victory year ago, changed the Indian chess scene, then I hope this will usher in a second chess revolution in India.