Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh is set to make history in the World Chess Championship as he nears a potential victory over China's Ding Liren. The series is tied at 6-6 after 12 intense games, and with a dramatic Game 13 that ended in a draw, Gukesh now has a final chance to clinch the title. This pivotal game, scheduled for Thursday, marks the culmination of years of hard work and determination for the young chess prodigy.

Born in Chennai on May 29, 2006, D Gukesh began playing chess at the age of seven. A prodigy from the start, he quickly rose through the ranks, winning several national and international titles, including the World Youth Chess Championships in 2018. His early achievements culminated in earning the title of International Master at just 12 years old, and he became the third-youngest Grandmaster in history.

2023 marked a breakthrough year for Gukesh when he became the youngest player to reach a 2750 rating, surpassing Viswanathan Anand as India’s top-ranked player. His victory at the Chess Candidates 2024 earned him a spot in the World Chess Championship against Ding Liren, where he now has the chance to make history by becoming the second World Chess Champion from India after Anand.

Apart from his individual success, Gukesh was part of the Indian team that won the country’s first-ever Chess Olympiad gold in 2024. As he prepares for the final game, all eyes are on Gukesh as he seeks to bring the World Chess Championship title to India, a feat accomplished only by Anand in the past.