Want to become the best player in the world, says World Champion Gukesh in Chennai

D. Gukesh, Youngest World Chess Champion arrived at Chennai International Airport on Monday.
| Photo Credit: B. Velankanni Raj

Speaking to journalists at the Velammal Hall here after arriving from Singapore on Monday (December 16, 2024), the youngest world chess champion Gukesh said that he was happy to see the country’s pride for his historic feat.

“My dream was to become the youngest world champion. I’m very happy to achieve this goal and come home. It’s only been two hours since I came home. I’m very happy to see how proud our country is. I want to thank everyone who supported me. I hope I can enjoy my time here,” said he 18-year-old.

With the scores level on 6.5 points each, Gukesh capitalised on Ding Liren’s blunder in the 55th move to win the final (14th) game and thus clinch the championship. He said that he experienced a lot of emotions during the final (14th) game and was even thinking about the tie-break.

“It was a very emotional moment [winning moment] for me. There were a lot of ups and downs in the game. There were a lot of emotions involved. I was already thinking about the tie-break. When I found out that the game was over, it was overwhelming.”

The reigning champion advised kids playing the “beautiful game” of chess to enjoy, be curious and learn from playing.

“The most important thing for me since I was a kid is to enjoy the game. If you don’t enjoy the game, there is no point in playing. My advice [to kids who are playing the game] is to enjoy whatever you do. Chess is a beautiful game. There is a lot to learn from it. If you are curious and love chess, and if the process is right, the results will be right,” he said.

Acknowledging the need for continuous improvement, he said that he’s motivated to work harder by the Norwegian chess genius and World No. 1, Magnus Carlsen.

“There are a lot of strong players. I still have a lot of improvement to do. Players like Magnus keep motivating me to work harder. Although this is a big achievement, and I know it comes at a very young age, I think there is still a very long way to go. Hopefully, [I want] one day to become the best player in the world.”