At just 18 years old, Indian grandmaster Gukesh has made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion. His remarkable achievement stems from an extraordinary work ethic and complete dedication to chess. The young prodigy defeated reigning champion Ding Liren through meticulous preparation and exceptional mental strength.
Gukesh’s Success Secret: Hard Work and Focus
Gukesh’s unprecedented success results from his single-minded focus on chess. While many young players balance multiple interests, Gukesh made chess his sole priority. He spends countless hours analyzing games, mastering openings, and identifying areas for improvement. His training regimen includes solving challenging chess puzzles and studying games of top players to refine his skills.
Those who work with Gukesh consistently highlight his exceptional concentration and commitment. “When I have no commitments, I dedicate almost 10 hours to chess,” says Gukesh. His trainer, GM Vishnu Prasanna, emphasizes how Gukesh’s ability to maintain focus during extended training sessions distinguishes him from other players. The support from his family, particularly his father Dr. Rajnikanth, has been crucial in creating the ideal environment for his chess development.
Also Read: How Gukesh Deals with Haters After the World Championship Win
The Rise of Gukesh

Gukesh’s breakthrough moment came in 2024 when he triumphed in the FIDE Candidates Tournament, securing his opportunity to compete for the World Chess Championship and further winning it. His distinctive playing style, which combines aggressive tactics with precise calculation, has earned him comparisons with chess legends like Magnus Carlsen and Viswanathan Anand.
Despite his phenomenal achievements, Gukesh maintains a humble attitude as he conveys, “I still have a lot left to achieve.” The chess world watches with great anticipation as this young champion prepares to hold back his crown in 2025. His success could potentially make him India’s second world chess champion following Viswanathan Anand’s legendary career.
Also Read: FIDE April 2025 Rankings: Magnus Carlsen Holds #1 Spot, India’s Gukesh Stays at #3