Vishy Anand Defends Gukesh’s Historic World Chess Title Win

Indian chess icon Viswanathan Anand has come out strongly in support of 18-year-old D Gukesh after critics, including Magnus Carlsen, questioned the legitimacy of his World Chess Championship 2024 victory. Gukesh defeated Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren in Game 14 of the final, becoming the youngest world chess champion in history.

The match, held in Singapore, was tied 6.5-6.5 and seemed headed for a tie-break until Ding’s critical mistake on move 55 allowed Gukesh to seize the advantage and secure victory with a superior pawn position. Despite the triumph, some, including former world champion Carlsen, criticized the classical format used in the tournament.

Carlsen argued that classical chess might not be the best measure of a player’s all-around abilities, calling it “too forgiving” and suggesting it doesn’t expose weaknesses in a player's game.

However, Anand dismissed these critiques, emphasizing that Ding’s error didn’t occur in isolation. “Mistakes like that don’t happen in a vacuum. Gukesh’s sustained pressure forced the blunder. Winning a world championship is no accident—it’s the result of skill, preparation, and nerves of steel,” Anand stated.

The young champion’s historic win has been hailed by many as a breakthrough moment for Indian chess, with Anand leading the defense against detractors. “Instead of undermining this achievement, we should celebrate the new era Gukesh has ushered in,” he added.