Teenage chess player Gukesh Dommaraju to become youngest world champion: “I didn't expect to win”

India on Thursday hailed chess legend Gukesh Dommaraju after the 18-year-old became the world's youngest champion with a thrilling final victory over China's Ding Liren.

Gukesh surpassed the record held by Russia Garry Kasparovwho won the title at the age of 22, after pulling off a stunning finish in Singapore to be crowned champion.

Dommaraju burst into tears as the room erupted with cheers from spectators, the BBC reported.

“Maybe I was so emotional because I didn't expect to win that position,” he said, according to the Reuters news agency.

He was also the second Indian after world chess champion Viswanathan Anand to hold the title.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes to what he described as a “historic and exemplary” achievement.

“Congratulations to Gukesh D on his amazing achievement. This is due to his unmatched talent, hard work and unwavering determination,” Modi wrote on social media.

“His influence has not only carved his name ​​in the history of chess but has also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and pursue excellence. My best wishes for his efforts in the future.”

Anand, who played a role as a mentor in Gukesh's remarkable journey, said the teenager was outstanding.

“Congratulations! It's a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India… and for me, a very personal proud moment,” Anand said on X.

Gukesh won the final game, which seemed to be heading for a draw that required more tie-breaking games, after capitalizing on a blunder by Ding.

“Ding looked like he had a risk-free chance to push for a win, but instead went into an endgame,” wrote Chess.com in its post-match summary, according to the BBC, “It should have been pulled, but Ding was damaged as the pressure grew.”

Indian sports shooter and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra said the teenager has “inspired a generation”.

“Your clarity, determination and grace under pressure have made the entire country proud,” said Bindra.

“Not only have you won a title, but you have inspired a generation to dream.

Born to a doctor father and a microbiologist mother in the southern Indian city of Chennai, Gukesh became India's youngest grandfather at the age of 12 years, seven months and 17 days, and among the youngest in the history of the game.

He reached the world championship by becoming the all-time winner of the prestigious Candidates Tournament in April.