India's Gukesh Dommaraju crowned world champion of chess, the youngest ever
NBCNOV 28 2024
Indian Teen Becomes the World's Youngest Chess Champion
Above: Gukesh Dommaraju celebrates with the World Chess Championship 2024 trophy during an award ceremony in Singapore on Dec. 13, 2024. Image copyright: SIMON LIM/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Gukesh has shattered records by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion ever in a meteoric rise that defies chess tradition. The Chennai prodigy's extraordinary journey epitomizes raw talent, unwavering determination, and the audacity of youth — transforming a childhood dream into a historic triumph that will echo through generations.
Narrative B
While celebrating Gukesh's historic victory, profound concerns remain over the championship's quality — as shown by this controversial ending. There is a visible and troubling decline in grandmaster standards, where a world title seemingly hinges more on chance and momentary lapses than the sublime strategic brilliance that once defined this noble game. Congratulations go to Gukesh, but the game must do better the next time.