PM Modi congratulates chess genius Gukesh, says his journey to the top will inspire millions

Congratulating 17-year-old Indian prodigy D Gukesh, the youngest World Chess Championship challenger in history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his outstanding performance and journey to the top will inspire millions of people.

“India is exceptionally proud of D Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the FIDE Candidates! Gukesh's remarkable achievement at Candidates in Toronto reflects his extraordinary talent and dedication. His outstanding performance and journey to the top inspires millions of people,” PM Modi posted on Instagram.

India is exceptionally proud @DGukesh On becoming the youngest player to win #FIDECandidates,

Gukesh's remarkable achievement at Candidates in Toronto reflects his extraordinary talent and dedication.

His outstanding performance and journey to the top… pic.twitter.com/pfNhhRj7W2

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) 22 April 2024

Gukesh created history by winning the 2024 edition of the FIDE Candidates Tournament.

The remarkable feat means Gukesh will now face world champion Ding Liren in a match later this year, making him only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to fight for a Classical World Championship title.

“Congratulations to D Gukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is very proud of what you have done. I am personally very proud of the way you played and handled difficult situations. Enjoy this moment,” Anand said in his congratulatory post on X.

Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur also praised the tremendous achievement of the 17-year-old grandmaster.

“Congratulations to 17-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh for becoming the youngest player to win the Candidates Tournament, surpassing the record held by chess great Garry Kasparov, who won the title at the age of 22. With this victory, you not only created history but also reclaimed India's place in the world of chess. This wonderful achievement will prove to be very helpful in inspiring the young generation. After this victory, when you are preparing to challenge the world champion, the whole country is standing with you. Best wishes to you,” Thakur said.