Gukesh Dommaraju’s rise to prominence in the world of chess has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 18-year-old prodigy made history on December 12, 2024, when he became the youngest World Chess Champion ever, surpassing a record previously held by Garry Kasparov. But Gukesh’s journey to this momentous achievement was not simply the result of raw talent; it was a product of determination, sacrifice, and the guidance of mentors who shaped his game.
Gukesh’s love for chess began at a very young age, inspired in part by an unforgettable event he witnessed in 2013. At just seven years old, Gukesh had the opportunity to attend the World Chess Championship match between two of the greatest players of all time, Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen, in his hometown of Chennai. Standing outside the playing hall, peering through the glass wall as the game unfolded, Gukesh was captivated by the intensity of the match and dreamed of one day competing at that very level. This moment sparked his passion for chess and set him on a path that would eventually lead to the pinnacle of the game.
Although Gukesh initially had a keen interest in cricket, it was his mother who encouraged him to pursue chess. She recognized his innate talent for strategy and problem-solving, qualities that would serve him well on the chessboard. Moreover, the influence of Viswanathan Anand, India’s most celebrated chess icon, played a key role in Gukesh’s decision to immerse himself in the game. Anand’s legendary status in the chess community, particularly in India, made a significant impression on the young boy, motivating him to follow in his footsteps and reach the highest echelons of the sport.
The Role of Chennai’s Chess Culture
Gukesh’s environment in Chennai, often referred to as the “chess capital of India,” played a pivotal role in his development as a chess player. The city boasts a rich chess culture, with numerous chess clubs, tournaments, and a vibrant community of players. Growing up in this chess-centric atmosphere, Gukesh had ample opportunities to learn, practice, and compete. The presence of seasoned players and the availability of world-class chess resources provided a fertile ground for nurturing his talent.
The Velammal Nexus School, which Gukesh attended, also played a significant role in his chess education. The school has a long-standing reputation for fostering chess talent and has produced several grandmasters, including notable players such as Praggnanandhaa and Murali Karthikeyan. The school’s commitment to supporting chess education allowed Gukesh to receive structured training while also enabling him to compete in numerous tournaments from an early age.
Chennai’s chess culture not only provided Gukesh with the resources and opportunities to develop as a player, but it also introduced him to the mentorship of Viswanathan Anand. The interaction with Anand was transformative for Gukesh, as Anand’s guidance and insights were instrumental in shaping Gukesh’s approach to high-level chess. Anand’s mentorship extended beyond strategic advice; it encompassed emotional support during moments of self-doubt and challenges in Gukesh’s career, helping him maintain his focus and determination.
The Early Years: A Journey of Rapid Growth
Gukesh’s rise in chess was meteoric. Under the guidance of his first coach, V. Bhaskar, Gukesh’s talent was nurtured and refined. Bhaskar, who had recognized Gukesh’s potential at an early age, provided structured training that helped him develop a deep understanding of the game. Gukesh quickly gained recognition for his skill and determination, becoming a FIDE-rated player within just six months of starting chess. His early successes in local and national tournaments added to his growing reputation, and by the age of 12, he was already a formidable competitor on the international stage.
In 2018, Gukesh achieved one of his first major milestones when he won the World Youth Chess Championship in the Under-12 category. His victory at this prestigious event was a clear sign of his growing talent and cemented his status as one of the most promising young players in the chess world. The following year, in 2019, Gukesh achieved another significant milestone when he earned his Grandmaster title at the age of 12 years and 7 months, making him one of the youngest grandmasters in history.
Breaking Records and Overcoming Challenges
As Gukesh’s career progressed, he continued to break records and achieve significant milestones. In 2023, he became the youngest player ever to reach a FIDE rating of 2750, a remarkable achievement that placed him among the elite players in the world. His rating would eventually peak at 2794, making him one of the highest-rated players in history. These accomplishments, coupled with his impressive performances in major tournaments, only strengthened Gukesh’s position as a future world champion.
However, Gukesh’s path to the top was not without its challenges. In 2017 and 2018, his family faced significant financial difficulties. The costs associated with participating in international chess tournaments were high, and Gukesh’s parents, both professionals in the medical field, struggled to make ends meet. His father even gave up his medical practice to support Gukesh’s chess career. At times, friends and well-wishers of the family had to step in to sponsor Gukesh’s participation in tournaments. These financial hardships were an early test of Gukesh’s resilience, and his parents’ unwavering support played a critical role in his ability to continue pursuing his dream.
Additionally, Gukesh made the difficult decision to drop out of school in Class 4 to focus on chess full-time. This was a monumental sacrifice, as it meant forgoing a traditional education in favor of dedicating all his time and energy to mastering the game. The pressure to perform, combined with the weight of such sacrifices, added to the emotional and psychological toll of his chess career. Yet, Gukesh’s determination to succeed never wavered.
Triumphs and Setbacks in the Championship
The most significant challenge of Gukesh’s career came in 2024 when he entered the World Chess Championship as one of the youngest challengers in history. The tournament was a test of his mental and emotional strength, as he faced some of the world’s best players, including reigning champion Ding Liren. Gukesh’s journey to the World Championship was not easy. In the early stages of the tournament, he faced an immediate setback, losing the opening game to Ding Liren. This loss was particularly painful, as it left Gukesh feeling “humiliated” and questioning his abilities. However, Gukesh’s resilience shone through as he regrouped quickly and managed to win the subsequent games, ultimately defeating Ding Liren to claim the title of World Chess Champion.
This victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. It was also a testament to Gukesh’s ability to bounce back from adversity. The mental and emotional challenges he faced during the tournament were alleviated by the guidance and support of his mentor, Viswanathan Anand, who helped Gukesh stay focused and calm in the face of pressure. Additionally, Gukesh’s collaboration with mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton, known for his work with the Indian cricket team during their 2011 World Cup victory, helped him manage the psychological aspects of competition. Upton’s training included strategies for coping with the stress of high-stakes games and techniques for maintaining mental clarity during intense moments.
The Importance of Mentorship
Throughout his career, Gukesh has benefitted from the guidance of several key mentors who have contributed to his success. V. Bhaskar, his first coach, laid the foundation for Gukesh’s early development by providing structured training and fostering a deep understanding of the game. Viswanathan Anand, the five-time World Chess Champion, has been a constant source of inspiration and mentorship. Anand’s experience and insights have helped shape Gukesh’s approach to high-level chess, offering him invaluable advice during critical moments of his career.
Moreover, Gukesh worked closely with a team of experts to prepare for the World Chess Championship. This team included top-level players like Grzegorz Gajewski and Radoslaw Wojtaszek, who provided diverse perspectives and strategies that enriched Gukesh’s training sessions. The collaborative nature of his preparation ensured that Gukesh was fully equipped to take on the challenges of the tournament.
The Future of Chess: Gukesh Dommaraju’s Legacy
Gukesh Dommaraju’s victory in the 2024 World Chess Championship marked the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious career. His achievements at such a young age have already cemented his legacy as one of the brightest talents in the history of the game. With a peak rating of 2794, a World Championship title, and a growing list of tournament victories, Gukesh has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the global chess stage.
As he continues to compete at the highest level, Gukesh is set to inspire a new generation of chess players, particularly in India, where the game has seen a surge in popularity thanks to players like Gukesh and his mentor Anand. His journey, filled with challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs, serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, mentorship, and passion in achieving greatness.
Gukesh Dommaraju’s rise to the top of the chess world is a story of dedication, resilience, and the impact of a supportive environment. From the chess-rich culture of Chennai to the invaluable mentorship he received from Anand and other key figures in his life, Gukesh’s journey has been shaped by the people and experiences around him. As the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, Gukesh is poised to leave an
