Garry Kasparov congratulated D Gukesh on becoming the youngest world chess champion. He acknowledged Gukesh’s achievement of reaching the pinnacle of chess.
“He has summitted the highest peak of all: making his mother happy,” Kasparov posted on X.
Kasparov noted Gukesh’s impressive journey, overcoming obstacles and opponents, especially considering his young age.
“Gukesh impressively surmounted every obstacle and opponent in his path, especially considering his age, and nothing more can be asked,” he said.
While Kasparov believes the traditional format of the world championship ended with Magnus Carlsen‘s decision not to defend his title, he emphasized that this wasn’t the focus currently. He stated that this wasn’t relevant to Gukesh’s victory.
“That is not the story today.”
Kasparov addressed criticisms regarding the quality of the match, particularly from Vladimir Kramnik. Kramnik suggested the match marked the ‘end of chess as we know it’ due to numerous blunders.
Kasparov disagreed, arguing the level of play was high and comparable to the previous championship match. He pointed out that Ding Liren, Gukesh’s opponent, displayed strong resilience.
“The level of play was quite high, at least equal to the previous match. Ding showed great resistance. As for the blunders, which world championship, or world champion, was without them? I had my share, and recall the double blunder in Carlsen-Anand 2014, g6. Matches take a toll.”
Kasparov highlighted that blunders are a part of chess championships. He even recounted a specific instance from a previous match between Carlsen and Anand.
He emphasized that Gukesh’s preparation and superior play led to his victory. He also celebrated India’s phenomenal year in chess, linking it to the country’s Olympiad dominance.
“Gukesh was well-prepared and the player who played the best won the match. His victory caps a phenomenal year for India. Combined with Olympiad dominance, chess has returned to its cradle and the era of “Vishy’s children” is truly upon us!”
Kasparov praised India’s vast talent pool, extending beyond chess.
“The future is bright not only in chess. The summit has been reached and now the goal must be to raise it even higher for the next ascent. Congratulations again. Upward!”
He expressed optimism for India’s future and congratulated Gukesh once more. He further used the metaphor of climbing to a summit.