'India is exceptionally proud of D Gukesh': PM Modi elated after Gukesh makes history in chess

India's Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has celebrated D Gukesh for his historic triumph at the FIDE Candidates Chess tournament in 2024. Gukesh emerged victorious in the tournament held in Toronto, Canada and became only the second Indian Grandmaster to qualify for the Chess World Championship final in its classical format. At 17 years old, he will be the youngest contender in the Championship's history.

PM Modi took to social media to share his congratulations to D Gukesh, saying that India was exceptionally proud of him. He further praised the 17-year old for showing immense determination and character to emerge victorious. 

Also Read |Gukesh reveals the TURNING POINT which fired his historic Candidates win

Narendra Modi wasn't the only one to celebrate D Gukesh, India's chess Grandmaster and Gukesh' mentor Vishwanathan Anand also congratulated the 17-year old. In an exclusive chat with Republic TV, Vishwanathan Anand hailed Gukesh's ability to stay calm and perform under pressure. 

“Gukesh performed so well under pressure. You can't teach that.  In the board next to him, his rivals Caruana and Nepomniachtchi failed to cope with pressure in one of the most nerve-racking games”, said Vishwanathan Anand to the Republic. 

The chess community lauded Gukesh for his brilliance in the FIDE Candidates Chess tournament.

Also Read |  Anand Mahindra gives kudos to GM Gukesh following Candidates victory

The Youngest Ever World Championship Challenger

D Gukesh with his victory at the Candidates Chess Tournament also broke a 40-year old record which was set by the iconic Gary Kasparov. Gukesh is now the youngest ever candidate that will challenge the World Championship title. 

Becoming the youngest player to win the FIDE Candidates, but in his post match press conference, Gukesh revealed that he never really focused or care about the record.