January 17, 2025 – New Delhi, India: The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Grandmaster D. Gukesh, the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, for being honored with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor. The announcement was made by the Government of India on January 15, 2025, in recognition of Gukesh’s extraordinary achievements and contributions to the world of chess.
At just 18 years old, Gukesh has made an indelible mark in the international chess community. Known for his remarkable tactical prowess and strategic brilliance, he became the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship in 2024, solidifying his place among the greatest chess minds of his generation. His achievement is all the more impressive as he continues to defy age barriers while representing India on the global chess stage.
The IMSA, which is dedicated to promoting mind sports globally, has lauded Gukesh’s achievement as a testament to the growing prominence of mind sports in India. The association emphasized that this recognition not only celebrates his personal success but also highlights the expanding recognition of chess as a major sport on the world stage.
A Historic Milestone for Indian Chess
Gukesh’s journey to the top of world chess is nothing short of inspirational. His victory in the 2024 World Chess Championship was a culmination of years of intense dedication and hard work. He defeated some of the world’s top chess players, including reigning champions, and established himself as a prodigious talent in the chess world.
In addition to his World Chess Championship title, Gukesh has represented India in multiple international tournaments, winning numerous titles and accolades. His rapid rise through the ranks has brought a renewed sense of pride and excitement to Indian chess fans and has inspired a new generation of aspiring chess players in the country.
Celebrating Excellence in Mind Sports
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the highest recognition given to sportspersons in India, and Gukesh’s inclusion in this elite list is a momentous occasion. Named after legendary Indian hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, the award honors athletes who have displayed exceptional performance in their respective fields.
The IMSA, which represents a wide array of mind sports, including chess, bridge, and Go, has celebrated Gukesh’s win as an example of the power of strategic thinking, intellect, and perseverance. In a statement released by the association, IMSA President Mr. Peter Hevia expressed his pride, saying, “D. Gukesh’s extraordinary accomplishments in chess not only showcase his brilliance but also underscore the significant role mind sports play in fostering intellectual development and international camaraderie. His achievements inspire millions around the world, and we are incredibly proud to see him receive this prestigious recognition.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As Gukesh continues to make waves in the world of chess, experts and fans alike are eagerly anticipating his future in the sport. His dedication and ambition suggest that his reign as the World Chess Champion will not be a fleeting moment but the start of a legacy that could shape the future of global chess for decades to come.
With the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award now in his hands, Gukesh has once again proven that the boundaries of success are limitless when talent, passion, and hard work come together.
About International Mind Sports Association (IMSA):
The International Mind Sports Association is a global organization dedicated to promoting mind sports such as chess, bridge, Go, and others. IMSA works to raise awareness, increase participation, and celebrate excellence in these intellectually demanding sports. Through various events, initiatives, and partnerships, IMSA aims to create a platform for mental athletes worldwide to showcase their skills.