Gukesh Focuses on New Preparations After Historic World Championship Win

Gukesh, the youngest world chess champion in history, has had a whirlwind few weeks since his monumental victory. The 18-year-old defeated Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship in Singapore, becoming the sport’s 18th world champion.

Since his triumph, Gukesh has been attending numerous felicitation events and recently received the prestigious Khel Ratna award. However, his focus has already shifted toward future goals and challenges.

“Now, I’m thinking about new goals, upcoming tournaments, and different ways to prepare,” Gukesh said at a felicitation event organized by his sponsors in Bengaluru. “My objective and approach remain the same—to give my best, continue improving, and win as many tournaments as possible. I’m looking forward to a year filled with learning, progress, and hopefully great results.”

Gukesh’s 2025 campaign begins with the Tata Steel Chess Masters in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, where he’ll face compatriots like Arjun Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, and Leon Luke Mendonca. He’s also set to compete in the Freestyle Grand Slam Chess Tour.

“2025 will bring tough challenges with exciting new tournaments,” Gukesh remarked. “The world championship is now in the past, and while I’m proud of that achievement and the recognition that followed, I’m eager to embrace the year