Shubman Gill, currently representing India in the ongoing Test series against Australia, took a moment to deliver a heartfelt message to D Gukesh, who recently made history as the youngest-ever world chess champion. The young chess prodigy stunned China’s Ding Liren to claim the title, surpassing the legendary Garry Kasparov’s record.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
At just 18 years old, Gukesh secured a dramatic 7.5-6.5 victory over reigning champion Ding Liren in the 2024 World Chess Championship. The intense match was closely contested, but a critical error by Ding in the final moments allowed Gukesh to claim a landmark win. This achievement broke Kasparov’s record, which had stood since 1985, when the Russian became the youngest champion at 22.
Team India’s Special Message
During a press conference ahead of the Gabba Test against Australia, Shubman Gill was asked about Gukesh’s historic feat. Representing Team India, Gill said, “On behalf of the entire Indian cricket team, congratulations to Gukesh Dommaraju. Becoming the youngest world champion is an incredible achievement, and we are all proud of him.”
Congratulatory Messages from the BCCI and ICC
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also lauded Gukesh’s accomplishment through their official platform, stating, “Congratulations to Gukesh Dommaraju on becoming the youngest world chess champion. He has made India proud.”
Jay Shah, chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), expressed his admiration on social media, writing, “Congratulations @DGukesh, you have made India proud by becoming the youngest world chess champion at just 18 years of age! I look forward to seeing many more achievements in your career. @FIDE_chess.”
The Role of Paddy Upton
Gukesh credited much of his mental fortitude and strategy to Paddy Upton, a renowned mental conditioning coach who was instrumental in India’s 2011 Cricket World Cup victory. Upton spoke about his approach to preparing Gukesh, saying, “We discussed how to manage himself when ahead, under pressure, or even when behind in a game or tournament. It was about having clear strategies for every situation.”
MS Dhoni: An Inspiration
Interestingly, Gukesh has often cited MS Dhoni as one of his biggest idols. Growing up, the chess champion admired Dhoni’s calm demeanor and strategic mindset, traits that have undoubtedly influenced his own approach to the game.
Gukesh’s triumph has brought immense pride to India, and his journey serves as an inspiration for young talents across the globe.
