LeydenGukesh Dommaraju, often known simply as Gukesh, is a young Indian chess prodigy who has captured the attention of the global chess community with his exceptional talent and rapid rise through the ranks. Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Gukesh’s journey in chess began at a very young age, and he has since achieved numerous milestones that highlight his extraordinary abilities.
Gukesh’s introduction to chess came through his father, Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon, and his mother, Padma, a microbiologist. His parents recognized his potential early on and supported his passion for the game. Gukesh’s dedication to chess was evident from the start, and he quickly began to make a name for himself in youth tournaments.
One of Gukesh’s early significant achievements was winning the Under-9 section of the Asian School Chess Championships in 2015. This victory marked the beginning of his rise in the chess world. He continued to excel in various youth competitions, including winning the World Youth Chess Championships in the Under-12 category in 2018. These successes laid a strong foundation for his future accomplishments.
In March 2017, at the age of just 10, Gukesh earned the title of International Master, showcasing his rapid progress in the game. However, his most notable achievement came on January 15, 2019, when he became the second-youngest grandmaster in history at the age of 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days. This remarkable feat placed him among the elite young talents in the chess world.
Gukesh’s rise did not stop there. He continued to perform exceptionally well in various tournaments, demonstrating his strategic prowess and deep understanding of the game. In June 2021, he won the Julius Baer Challengers Chess Tour, Gelfand Challenge, scoring an impressive 14 out of 19 points. This victory further solidified his reputation as a formidable player.
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One of the most significant milestones in Gukesh’s career came in 2024 when he became the youngest undisputed World Chess Champion at the age of 18. He achieved this by defeating the reigning champion, Ding Liren of China, in a closely contested match. Gukesh secured 7.5 points against Ding’s 6.5, making him the second Indian to win the World Chess Championship, following the legendary Viswanathan Anand.
Gukesh’s contributions to Indian chess extend beyond his individual achievements. He has been a key player in India’s success in team events, winning multiple gold medals at the Chess Olympiad and the Asian Games. His performances have been instrumental in elevating India’s status in the global chess arena.
Gukesh Dommaraju Age
As of December 2024, Gukesh is 18 years old. His youth has not hindered his achievements; rather, it has highlighted his extraordinary talent and dedication to the game. He became the youngest undisputed World Chess Champion in 2024, a title he won at the age of 18, surpassing the previous record held by Garry Kasparov.
Gukesh Dommaraju Net Worth
Gukesh’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million (approximately ₹8.26 crore). This impressive figure is primarily derived from his winnings in international chess tournaments and brand endorsements. His victory in the 2024 World Chess Championship alone brought him a significant prize of $2.5 million. Additionally, Gukesh’s lifestyle reflects his success, as he owns a Mercedes worth ₹1.05 crore.
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Gukesh Dommaraju Height
Gukesh stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall and weighs around 58 kg. His physical stature, while not directly influencing his chess abilities, complements his disciplined and focused approach to the game.
Gukesh Dommaraju Rating
Gukesh’s current FIDE rating is 2783, placing him among the top players in the world. He achieved his peak rating of 2794 in October 2024, which also marked his highest world ranking at number 5. His rapid rating progression is a testament to his consistent performance and strategic prowess in various formats of the game, including standard, rapid, and blitz chess.
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