2024 was a remarkable year for Indian chess, thanks to the extraordinary achievements of D Gukesh. At just 18 years old, Gukesh made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion. His success on the international stage not only brought glory to India but also earned him a staggering Rs 13 crore in prize money.
D Gukesh’s Rise to the Top
D Gukesh’s journey to the top of the chess world has been nothing short of inspiring. He clinched the prestigious World Chess Championship title by defeating China’s Ding Liren, making him the youngest ever to hold this title. This victory came after his stellar performance in the Candidates Tournament, which earned him a place in the World Championship match.
Record-Breaking Earnings
Gukesh’s achievements translated into impressive financial rewards. According to Chase.com, he earned a total of US $1,577,842 (approximately Rs 13.6 crore) from various tournaments in 2024. The lion’s share of this came from the World Chess Championship, where he pocketed Rs 11.45 crore. His exceptional performance didn’t go unnoticed at home, as the Tamil Nadu government rewarded him with an additional Rs 5 crore.
Additional Rewards and Net Worth
Apart from cash prizes, Gukesh also received a Mercedes Benz E Class car from his school, Velaamal, for winning the Candidates Tournament. His consistent performances have significantly boosted his net worth, which has now surpassed Rs 20 crore, marking him as one of the wealthiest young chess players.
Mentorship Under Viswanathan Anand
Gukesh’s success can be attributed to his hard work and the guidance of Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand. Training at Anand’s academy has honed Gukesh’s skills, making him a formidable opponent on the global stage. With Anand’s mentorship, Gukesh is expected to continue his winning streak and further elevate India’s standing in the chess world.
Gukesh Outshines Global Chess Stars
In terms of prize money, Gukesh topped the charts in 2024, surpassing even well-established names like Ding Liren and Magnus Carlsen. Ding earned $1,183,600, while Carlsen, despite playing fewer tournaments, earned $633,639. This feat highlights Gukesh’s dominance and potential in the chess world.
The Future of Indian Chess
Gukesh’s triumph marks a significant moment for Indian chess, signaling the rise of a new generation of players ready to take on the world. With his current trajectory, Gukesh is poised to follow in the footsteps of legends like Anand and continue bringing laurels to the country.
