A 17-year-old Indian will become the youngest player to compete for the World Chess Championship title after winning a big event in Canada.
Gukesh Dommaraju will face incumbent champion Ding Liren from China for another piece of history, having already won the coveted Candidates Tournament as the youngest player.
“I’m just so relieved, so happy following this crazy game,” Gukesh said following his landmark triumph in Toronto on Sunday.
“I was in the right mindset throughout the event. From start to end, I was in good spirits, fully motivated and I really wanted to win the event.”
A grandmaster since he was 12, he is now set to be the “youngest World Chess Championship challenger in history”, the International Chess Federation said.
Asked how he felt about his history-making feats, the teenager said: “I don’t really care about youngest and all these records, but it’s a nice thing to say.
“Right now I’m mostly just happy about winning the tournament.”
Gukesh became India’s youngest grandmaster at the age of 12 years, seven months, and 17 days, but fell 17 days short of being the world’s youngest, according to Indian media.
Eight players competed in Toronto beginning April 4, although without Magnus Carlsen, Norway’s multiple world champion.
“India is exceptionally proud of Gukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the FIDE Candidates!” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X.
“Gukesh’s remarkable achievement at the Candidates in Toronto showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication.
“His outstanding performance and journey to the top inspires millions.”
The date and location of the world championship showdown have yet to be announced.