Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju has become the youngest-ever world chess champion at age 18, defeating defending champion Ding Liren of China in a gripping final on Thursday in Singapore.

Dommaraju shattered the previous record held by Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who claimed the title at 22 in 1985.

Hailing from Chennai, India’s chess capital, Dommaraju became a grandmaster at 12 years old, the third-youngest in history. Despite entering the FIDE World Chess Championship as an underdog, the teenager triumphed in the dramatic final round of the 14-game competition, securing the title with a score of 7.5–6.5.

Playing with black pieces, Dommaraju capitalized on a decisive blunder from Ding, who moved his rook into a vulnerable position on the 55th move. Realizing his error, Ding resigned three moves later, sealing victory for the Indian player.

“It’s a proud moment for chess, a proud moment for India… and for me, a very personal moment of pride,” said Dommaraju, overwhelmed with emotion after his historic win.

This triumph marks India’s second world chess championship title, following Viswanathan Anand’s reign, which ended in 2012. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the achievement as “historic and exemplary,” lauding Dommaraju’s dedication and skill.

The championship carried a prize fund of $2.5 million.