“Garry Kasparov Applauds D Gukesh’s Historic Victory in Candidates Tournament”

In Short

• D Gukesh, 17, became the youngest winner of Chess Candidates
• Legendary Gary Kasparov highlighted the rise of Indian chess prodigies
• 3 of Viswanathan Anand’s students made it to the Candidates in 2024

Legendary chess Grandmaster Garry Kasparov recently showered praise upon D Gukesh, a rising star in the chess world, following the 17-year-old’s remarkable triumph in the prestigious Candidates Tournament.

Kasparov, renowned for his own achievements in the game, not only lauded Gukesh’s exceptional performance but also recognized the broader implications of India’s growing influence in international chess, particularly citing the pivotal role played by the legendary Viswanathan Anand in nurturing young talents.

In a tweet resonating with admiration, Kasparov highlighted the seismic shift occurring in the chess landscape, particularly emphasizing the upcoming clash for the World Championship title.

Gukesh’s victory, against all odds, secured him a coveted spot in the title match against reigning champion Ding Liren of China, marking a historic moment in the sport. Kasparov’s acknowledgment of Anand’s mentorship and the emergence of Indian chess prodigies underscores the transformative impact of the Indian chess diaspora on the global stage.

The Candidates Tournament, a crucible for determining the challenger for the World Championship, witnessed the stellar performance of not just Gukesh, but also his compatriots R Praggnanandhaa and Vidit Gujrathi.

Despite their relative youth and limited experience in such high-stakes competitions, the Indian contingent showcased exceptional skill and resilience, earning commendable placements in the tournament.

Gukesh’s ascent to becoming the youngest-ever challenger for the world title is a testament to his prodigious talent and relentless dedication to the game.

His achievement echoes Kasparov’s own groundbreaking records set four decades ago, symbolizing a new chapter in the annals of chess history.

Furthermore, Kasparov’s remarks underscore the broader global interest in chess, particularly among the Indian and Chinese diasporas in countries like the USA and the UK.

This burgeoning enthusiasm for the game has not gone unnoticed, with initiatives like the Kasparov Foundation taking note of and supporting the burgeoning talent pool.

Despite initial skepticism from some quarters, including former world champion Magnus Carlsen, regarding the prospects of the Indian contingent at the Candidates Tournament, Gukesh and his peers defied expectations with their stellar performances.

Gukesh’s journey to the Candidates was itself a testament to his resilience and skill, overcoming obstacles to secure his place among the elite competitors vying for the World Championship title.

As the chess world eagerly anticipates the showdown between Gukesh and Ding Liren, the rise of Indian chess and the mentorship legacy of stalwarts like Anand continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts worldwide, signaling a new era of excellence in the game.