17-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh scripted history after becoming the youngest World Championship challenger, by winning the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, Canada.
The Chennai lad became only the second Indian after the legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the Candidates and the five-time former world champion reacted to Gukesh's triumph, saying that he was "personally proud" of the achievement and how he handled the tough times during the journey of the triumph.
"Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The
@WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done . I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment," Anand wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday.
Gukesh's achievement showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication, says PM Modi
Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done . I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) April 22, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to Gukesh's victory, saying that India was "exceptionally proud" of the teenager and his journey to the top would inspire millions.
India is exceptionally proud of @DGukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the #FIDECandidates! Gukesh's remarkable achievement at the Candidates in Toronto showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication. His outstanding performance and journey to the top… pic.twitter.com/pfNhhRj7W2— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2024
Gukesh accumulated nine out of a possible 14 points here after drawing his final round game against American Hikaru Nakamura.
The Indian needed the last game between Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia and top-seeded American Fabiano Caruana to end in a draw and this is exactly how things panned out.
Had any of these two players won, the tournament would have needed a tie-break as Gukesh and the winner would have ended up in joint lead.
He won the silver medal at the Asian Games last year and will face reigning world champion, China's Ding Liren, for the crown later this year.
(With inputs from PTI).
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