India’s Gukesh Betters Kasparov’s Record to Become Youngest to Win Candidates Tournament in Toronto

New Delhi: India’s young chess grand-master D Gukesh created history by winning the prestigious Candidates tournament in Toronto at the age of 17.

With the win, Gukesh bettered the legendary Garry Kasparov’s 40 year-old record. The Russian great was 22 when he qualified in 1984 to clash with compatriot Anatoly Karpov.

Gukesh drew with American Hikaru Nakamura in the final round to not only win the prestigious tournament but also become the youngest ever challenger to the world title at 17. The Chennai-based teen will take on reigning world champion, China’s Ding Liren, for the crown later this year.

Five-time world champion and the only other Indian to win the Candidates, the legendary Viswanathan Anand congratulated the teenager.

Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done. I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment,” Anand wrote on ‘X’.

Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done . I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) April 22, 2024

Gukesh had become the third youngest player in history to earn the Grandmaster title at the age of 12.

English grandmaster David Howell said he knew the prodigiously talented player would go on to do great things from the moment he played his first match against the Indian.

Congrats to Gukesh on winning the Candidates!! What a tournament 👏
I knew he was special ever since our first game. He was just 12 years old (but already a GM! 🤯 ) While analysing, both his mature attitude and his calculation skills impressed me hugely. Future world champ? 🌟 pic.twitter.com/9WkkkFXeDg

— David Howell (@DavidHowellGM) April 22, 2024

Former world champion and Grandmaster Vladimir Kramnik of Russia congratulated Gukesh for his astounding performance.

What an evening 🫣
Congratulations to Gukesh and special award for both Fabi, Ian for their increadible performance today. One of the most interesting games I ever saw. Bravo, REAL FIGHTERS, for giving it all. Most important, more than anything in chess in fact
Full respect

— Vladimir Kramnik (@VBkramnik) April 22, 2024

Indian grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who finished second in the women’s section, said “Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger!!”

Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger!! https://t.co/o0Gl0Z4kCW

— Koneru Humpy (@humpy_koneru) April 22, 2024