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Despite his emotions, Gukesh still took the time to congratulate his opponent, and to also rearrange the board as he usually does after every game, regardless of the result.
D Gukesh battling his emotions as he rearranges the chess board after his win (X)
Win, lose or draw: results change, but manners maketh man. Newly-crowned World Chess Champion D Gukesh showcased the same, as the youngster was captured rearranging the board patiently, whilst in emotional ecstacy, after he claimed the historic Game 14 win over Ding Liren at the World Chess Championship on Thursday.
India’s Gukesh dethroned reigning champion Ding Liren of China in a stunning turn of events after it appeared all but certain that it will be a draw, and capitalised on a fatal blunder from the Chinese GM to land the knockout punch and become the second ever Indian to become undisputed world champion.
Gukesh was seen battling to keep his emotions intact as he realized what he had just achieved. Despite his emotions, he still took the time to congratulate his opponent on giving him the fight of his life, and to also rearrange the board as he usually does after every game, regardless of the result.
“I was dreaming this moment for last 10 years. Happy I realised this dream,” an elated Gukesh said after his historic win in Singapore. “I got a bit emotional because I was not expecting to win. But then I got a chance to press on.”
Gukesh has fulfilled his childhood dream as he recalled watching the 2013 World Championship Match between Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen in Chennai as a mere spectator.
“I’ve been dreaming about this and living this moment since I was 6 or 7. Every chess player wants to live this moment. I’m living my dream. I’d like to thank God from the Candidates till the Championship,” he said.
While trying to come to terms with what had transpired, Gukesh still had the poise to praise his opponent.
“To me Ðing is a real world champion. He fought like a true champion and I’m sorry for Ding and team. I would like to thank my opponent,” Gukesh said.
With his monumental win, Gukesh becomes the 18th GM and just the second Indian GM, after the legendary Viswanthan Anand, to win the world championship title.
