Gukesh D Overtakes Viswanathan Anand, Becomes India’s New Chess Champion
In a historic triumph, 17-year-old Grandmaster Gukesh D has dethroned Viswanathan Anand. Ending Anand’s remarkable 36-year reign as India’s No. 1 chess player. Gukesh’s extraordinary feat was solidified with a triumphant win over Misratdin Iskandarov, a home favourite from Azerbaijan, in the second round of the World Cup.
Gukesh’s meteoric rise was punctuated by his awe-inspiring victory over Iskandarov in a match that spanned 44 compelling moves. This victory propelled Gukesh to the pinnacle of the live world (FIDE) rankings, surpassing his idol and Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) couldn’t contain their excitement and conveyed their astonishment through a tweet. “Gukesh D won again today and has overcome Viswanathan Anand in live rating! There is still almost a month till the next official FIDE rating list on September 1, . Though it’s highly likely that the 17-year-old will be making it to the top 10 in the world as the highest-rated Indian player.”
Gukesh’s live rating soared to an impressive 2755.9, as he garnered an additional 2.5 rating points. This accomplishment propelled Gukesh into the coveted position of World No. 9 in live rankings. At the same time the revered five-time World champion, Viswanathan Anand, graciously descended to the 10th spot.
Viswanathan Anand’s legacy
Viswanathan Anand’s legacy has been nothing short of extraordinary. He first entered the World’s top 10 in July 1991, and since January 1987. One can say he has proudly upheld the title of India’s top-ranked player across all published lists. However, Gukesh’s ascendancy indicates the relentless growth and ambition within the Indian chess community.
With the World Cup’s excitement far from over. Gukesh’s journey is poised to continue as he prepares to face off against compatriot S L Narayanan in the third round.
Gukesh’s achievements stand as a testament to the thriving talent within the Indian chess circuit.
he has joined a cohort of other talented Indian players advancing to the next round.
Great performing Chess players of India Today
In the men’s section, GM R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin, D Harika, and R Vaishali have all clinched victories, progressing to the third round. Notable among these wins was Karthik Venkataraman’s remarkable performance, forcing a tie-break against the No. 2 seed Hikaru Nakamura. Meanwhile, Indian GM B Adhiban’s journey in the tournament came to an end, as he bowed out to Daniil Dubov.
Gukesh has becomes a symbol of hope and inspiration for the entire chess community. He has also reaffirmed India’s prowess on the international chess stage. His victory shows that the young prodigy strives to further elevate India’s standing in the global chess arena.
