Gukesh Expresses Gratitude for PM Modi's Support

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gukesh Dommaraju acknowledges PM Modi's support.
- He made history as the youngest World Champion.
- Warm conversations were had during their meetings.
- He aims to improve continuously as a player.
- Gukesh is ready to embrace challenges as the World Champion.
New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) World Chess Champion Gukesh Dommaraju expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the support he has received, describing their meetings as exceptionally warm.
The 18-year-old Gukesh, who made history by becoming the youngest World Champion after defeating China's Ding Liren in the World Championship Match held in Singapore in December 2024, celebrated a thrilling last-game victory following a critical error from his rival.
"Indeed, the conversations we had were wonderful, and PM Modi was incredibly warm. During both of our meetings, following the Olympiad and the World Championship, I felt truly supported," Gukesh remarked in an interview with IANS while attending a recognition event organized by the All-India Chess Federation (AICF) in the capital.
During the event, Gukesh was honored alongside Women's World Rapid Champion Koneru Humpy, who secured the title in late 2024 in the United States. Humpy claimed victory at the World Rapid Chess Championship for the second time in her career, finishing ahead of Ju Wenjun from China.
Gukesh expressed his desire to keep enhancing his skills and perform better each time he competes. "I simply aim to improve myself and excel every time I play," he stated.
He acknowledged that being the World Champion means he will be a target, but he is ready to embrace the challenge.
"I'm aware that everyone will be aiming for me as the World Champion, but I will work hard to improve and meet that challenge. My focus has always been on personal growth both as a player and as an individual, and I'm truly thankful for the positive results I've achieved," Gukesh added.