D Gukesh Hugs Father After Winning World Chess Champion Title, Discusses Financial Support From Parents Friends For Playing Tournaments; Video

Dommaraju Gukesh hardly showed any emotions throughout the World Championship in Singapore, but couldn’t hold back his tears after his dramatic victory over Ding Liren to win the crown on Thursday. Gukesh secured the requisite 7.5 points as against 6.5 of Liren after winning the last classical time control game of the 14-game match that seemed headed for a draw for most part. Following the victory, the new World Champion was captured hugging his father after coming out of the venue

While speaking to media post victory, Gukesh not only thanked his parents and friends but also spoke about the struggle his familyhad to endure throughout his chess journey. He said that the dream of winning world chess championship is bigger for his parents than him.

He said, "The most sacrifices have been done by my family and friends. We are not a very well off family and had to go through financial crisis. I did not realise it at that point of time. But the kind of lengths they went to."

"At some point in 2017 and 2018 we were running low on money. I could play tournaments and train because my parents friends came forward and sponsored me themselves. So these are all things my parents had to endure for me to just get a chance to play in a tournament"

D Gukesh on winning the title

Before Gukesh's feat on Thursday, the legendary Garry Kasparov of Russia was the youngest world chess champion when he won the title at the age of 22, dethroning Anatoly Karpov in 1985. Gukesh had entered the match as the youngest ever challenger to the world crown after winning the Candidates tournament earlier this year.

Speaking about his title win, Gukesh said, "I was dreaming this moment for last 10 years. Happy I realised this dream," Gukesh said after his incredible victory. I got a bit emotional because I was not expecting to win. But then I got a chance to press on," .

He added, "I've been dreaming about this and living this moment since I was 6 or 7. Every chess player wants to live this moment. I'm living my dream. I'd like to thank God from candidates till the championship."