Teenage Chess Prodigy D Gukesh Triumphs at Candidates Tournament, Eyes World Championship

Seventeen-year-old chess sensation D Gukesh from Chennai has become the youngest winner of the prestigious Candidates Tournament, securing his place in the upcoming World Chess Championship. Gukesh’s draw against American grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura, combined with a pivotal tie between competitors Ian Nepomniachtchi and Fabiano Caruana, clinched his historical victory. This triumph follows his record as India’s youngest grandmaster, a title he achieved at just 12 years old, barely missing the world record by 17 days.

Gukesh’s rise in the chess world has been marked by an unconventional approach to training. Under the guidance of coach Vishnu Prasanna, Gukesh was kept away from chess engines until he surpassed a 2500 rating, a strategy aimed at enhancing his intuitive and strategic thinking skills. This method paid off, as evident from his performances, and was supported by insights from legendary Indian grandmaster Viswanathan Anand. Anand praises Gukesh’s approach as beneficial, emphasizing the importance of a player focusing on skills while leveraging a trainer’s insights gained through engine analysis.

The young prodigy’s journey reflects a blend of innate talent and rigorous discipline, characterized by a relentless pursuit of chess mastery and a willingness to undertake less enjoyable aspects of training. His coach Vishnu highlighted Gukesh’s commitment to achieving excellence, including physical fitness and prioritizing classical chess over faster formats. Gukesh’s dedication and unique training approach have not only reshaped his career but also set a new benchmark for young chess players globally. As he prepares for the World Championship, the chess community watches eagerly, anticipating the rise of a new champion on the world stage.

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