India’s talented, 18-year-old D Gukesh, the youngest world chess champion, landed at the Chennai airport to fanfare as hundreds of enthusiastic fans and officials lined up to welcome him on Monday.
The teenage grandmaster won the world title at the age of 18 last week in Singapore, defeating China’s Ding Liren 7.5-6.5.
Overwhelmed by the grand reception, Gukesh thanked everyone for their support. “It’s amazing. Your support gave me a lot of energy. It’s a great feeling to win the world championship,” he said.
“Bringing the trophy back to India means a lot. Thank you for the welcome. I hope we have a great few days celebrating together,” Gukesh added.
After he touched base at the Kamaraj Airport, the staff of Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu and his school Velammal Vidyalaya welcomed him in the airport lounge with shawls draped around him and bouquets of flowers.
After greeting the fans, he left for home with a car decorated with flowers and his photo.
Meanwhile, Gukesh Viswanathan became only the second Indian to win the world title after Anand. Anand, who mentored Gukesh, won the world title five times.
The 18-year-old world champion won a cash prize of USD 1.3 million (approximately Rs 11.03 crore) after his victory in the tournament.