Dommaraju Gukesh etched his name into the annals of history by clinching the World Chess Championship.
NEW DELHI: Indian chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh etched his name into the annals of history by clinching the World Chess Championship, defeating defending champion Ding Liren in a nerve-wracking final. While the chess world erupted in applause for the 18-year-old, one moment that captured the hearts of millions was the emotional reaction of Gukesh’s father upon realizing his son had secured the coveted title.
A video shows Gukesh’s father in tears of joy, his face radiating pride and disbelief, as the final move unfolded. The raw emotion resonated deeply with fans worldwide, symbolizing the sacrifices and unwavering support of parents behind every champion. The tweet featuring the clip quickly went viral, amassing thousands of likes and shares, with fans celebrating not just Gukesh’s victory but also the heartwarming bond between father and son.
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The championship, held in Astana, Kazakhstan, witnessed Gukesh’s meteoric rise as he defeated top players to face Ding Liren, the Chinese grandmaster who had won the title in 2023. In a best-of-14 match format, Gukesh displayed exceptional composure and strategic brilliance, sealing the match with a decisive victory in the 12th game.
Speaking after the win, Gukesh credited his family’s unwavering support for his success. “My parents have been my pillars of strength. This moment is as much theirs as it is mine,” he said.
The victory marks a turning point for Indian chess, positioning Gukesh as a successor to legends like Viswanathan Anand. Anand, who mentored Gukesh during his early career, praised him as “a once-in-a-generation talent who is taking Indian chess to unparalleled heights.”
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Social media erupted with congratulations from prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who lauded Gukesh’s determination and skill. Bollywood celebrities, sports personalities, and international chess champions also joined in celebrating the milestone.
For Gukesh’s father, the journey to this moment has been a testament to perseverance and belief. In an interview, he recalled the early days of Gukesh’s chess training, the countless hours spent traveling for tournaments, and the financial struggles they overcame to nurture his talent.
As India celebrates its new world champion, the image of a proud father overwhelmed by his son’s success serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories behind every triumph.