NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauded Grandmaster D Gukesh's "remarkable achievement" at the FIDE Candidates 2024 in Toronto, emphasizing that the 17-year-old's outstanding performance inspires millions.

Gukesh made history by winning the FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024, becoming the youngest-ever challenger to the world title after an exhilarating final round in Toronto.


Indian Prime Minister joined the chorus of applause, hailing Gukesh's inspirational win as a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication.

"India is exceptionally proud of @DGukesh on becoming the youngest-ever player to win the #FIDECandidates! 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," Modi wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar also took to social media to congratulate Gukesh, emphasizing the significance of his achievement at just 17 years old.

"What a triumph, @DGukesh! The youngest ever to win the FIDE Candidates-at only 17! Your journey from here leads to the World Championship, and we'll be with you at every move. Go make history! #FIDECandidates," Tendulkar tweeted.


As 17-year-old D Gukesh clinched victory at the prestigious Candidates tournament, the global chess community erupted in celebration, dubbing him a potential "future world champion."

Drawing with Hikaru Nakamura in the final round, Gukesh not only secured the coveted title but also made history as the youngest-ever challenger for the world title.

Legendary figures like Viswanathan Anand, India's five-time world champion, showered praise on the young prodigy. "Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger," Anand tweeted, expressing immense pride in Gukesh's remarkable journey.



Reflecting on Gukesh's journey, English grandmaster David Howell recalled their first encounter when Gukesh was just 12 years old. "I knew he was special ever since our first game," Howell tweeted, praising Gukesh's mature attitude and exceptional calculation skills.


Former world champion Vladimir Kramnik of Russia lauded Gukesh for his astounding performance, describing the tournament as one of the most interesting he had ever seen.


With this historic win, Gukesh surpassed the record set by chess legend Garry Kasparov, setting the stage for an epic showdown with reigning world champion Ding Liren later this year.

Indian chess stalwarts, including Koneru Humpy and Tania Sachdev, hailed Gukesh's achievement as a defining moment for Indian chess.


Dronacharya award-winning coach Ramachandran Ramesh expressed pride in Gukesh's inspiring journey.


Azerbaijani grandmaster Teimour Radjabov marvelled at the teenager's achievement at such a young age.


Industrialist Anand Mahindra predicted a bright future for Gukesh, describing him as the "Chaturanga Champ" and highlighting his composure and talent on the global stage.


(Inputs from agencies)