CNN
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Teenager Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest-ever undisputed world classical chess champion after defeating Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in the best-of-14 final in Singapore on Thursday.

18-year-old Gukesh and defending champion Ding went into the final game tied and the rapid tiebreaks appeared to be upside down, but it was the young player who secured the decisive point after a blunder from Ding.

When his victory was confirmed, Gukesh burst into tears as the emotions of his victory seemed to overwhelm him, while Ding could only sit in disbelief, his head in his hands.

After standing solemnly with his arms raised, Gukesh was led out of the building where he gave his father a long hug.

Social media clips showed fans in India wildly celebrating Gukesh’s victory, cheering and hugging each other as he became the 18th world chess champion and only the country’s second world champion after Viswanathan Anand.

Afterwards, a jubilant Gukesh admitted that he initially didn’t realize Ding’s mistake in the last game. But when he realized that his Chinese opponent had made the crucial mistake, he said: “That was probably the best moment of my life.”

At 18, he is four years younger than the legendary Garry Kasparov when the Russian won his first world title in 1985.

Gukesh added in his press conference, “My journey goes back since I started playing chess when I was six and a half and seven years old.” I have been dreaming of this moment for more than 10 years.

“Every chess player wants to experience this moment and very few get the chance.” Being one of them – I think the only way to explain it is that I’m living my dream. First of all I would like to thank God. This entire journey, from qualifying to the (qualifying tournament) candidates to getting here, could only have been possible because of God. There were so many miracles.

“And I am grateful for all the people who accompanied me on this journey. I want to thank each and every one of them, but I probably have to prepare my speech first because (with) the emotions I’m feeling right now, I’m going to say something stupid.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Gukesh and wrote on X: “Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D for his remarkable achievement. This is the result of his unparalleled talent, hard work and unwavering determination.

“His triumph not only etched his name in the annals of chess history, but also inspired millions of young minds to dream big and strive for excellence. I wish him all the best for his future endeavors.”

Anand also praised his compatriot for bringing the World Cup back to India.

“Congratulations! It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India, a proud moment for WACA and for me a very personal moment of pride,” Anand wrote on X. “Ding played a very exciting match and showed that he is the champion.” ”