WATCH: D Gukesh shares emotional hug with father, calls mother after becoming youngest world chess champion

Gukesh stepped out of the game room, broke down in tears and hugged his father waiting outside.

New Delhi | December 13, 2024 10:59 AM IST

2 min read

Gukesh sharing a moment with his father and mother after winning World Chess Championship

On December 12, Gukesh Dommaraju made history by becoming the youngest-ever world chess champion, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in a nail-biting 14th game of the World Chess Championship. The emotional aftermath of his victory quickly captured hearts online, with one video standing out: Gukesh embracing his father in a deeply moving moment.

Amid the cheers of fans and the flash of cameras, Gukesh stepped out of the game room, broke down in tears and gave his father a tight hug. His father, who was waiting at the venue with mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton, was beaming with pride. The long embrace, filled with unspoken words, moved everyone present.

Gukesh also hugged a team member, while struggling to hold back his tears. It was a raw, powerful display of what this monumental achievement meant to him, his family, and his team.

The young achiever couldn’t hold back his tears as he got into the team car. He also had a heart-felt phone call with his mother.

Reflecting on his victory, Gukesh described Liren’s critical mistake as “the best moment” of his life. Despite the high stakes, he spoke with deep respect for his opponent, calling Liren “one of the best players in history” and a “true world champion.”

Also Read | ‘Dreams do come true’: Old video of D Gukesh revealing ‘World Champion’ ambition goes viral after his historic win

“11 years back the title was taken away from India. When I was watching in 2013, looking into the glass box, I thought it’d be so cool to be there one day,” Gukesh, 18, said.

“I had the dream 10 years ago of bringing the title back. There’s nothing better than this,” said Gukesh.

From the homepage