Gukesh Team members list: Meet the team behind Gukesh Dommaraju's World Chess Championship 2024 victory

Gukesh Dommaraju’s triumph at the World Chess Championship 2024 in Singapore has made him the youngest-ever world chess champion. The 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster defeated reigning champion Ding Liren in a thrilling 14-game match, securing a 7.5 to 6.5 victory.

However, this win was not achieved alone; behind Gukesh’s remarkable journey was a team of dedicated individuals who played an integral role in his success. In a heartfelt press conference after the victory, Gukesh took a moment to acknowledge the crucial support he received from his team throughout this incredible journey.

His primary trainer, Grzegorz Gajewski, was the first to receive recognition.

“Grzegorz Gajewski has been my trainer for the past two years. He is someone who just works tirelessly for me,” Gukesh said (via The Hindu).

Another key figure in Gukesh’s success was Paddy Upton, who, while not directly involved in chess strategy, had a lasting impact on his mental and emotional preparation.

“Paddy has been a huge support for me in the six months before the World Championship. Although he is not a part of my chess team, he is a very important person in my journey towards this match,” he added.

Gukesh’s team also included Radoslaw Wojtaszek, who was instrumental during the FIDE Candidates Tournament.

“I would also like to thank Radoslaw Wojtaszek. He was there for the FIDE Candidates tournament and the whole journey,” Gukesh acknowledged.

The 18-year-old Indian further went on to name the other key members of his team and their roles in helping him become the youngest world chess champion by breaking Garry Kasparov’s long-standing record.

“Pentala Harikrishna has also been for the whole Candidates-World Championship journey. Vincent Keymer joined the team for the match. Jan-Krzysztof Duda was also there for the Candidates but more as a playing partner. This time, he helped us in a couple of training camps. Jan Klimkowski was also helping Gajeswki and assisting him in the preparation during the Candidates,” Gukesh continued.

---

Gukesh Dommarju on Viswanathan Anand’s ‘unofficial’ support

Gukesh Dommaraju also highlighted Indian legend Viswanathan Anand’s support, which helped him win the World Chess Championship 2024. Notably, Gukesh is the only Indian to become the world chess champion after Anand.

Acknowledging Anand’s role in his triumph, Gukesh said:

“Vishy Sir was never officially a part of the team but we all know he was supporting me. He attended one of the days during the training camp and also helping remotely for a few sessions.”

“This team.....every single one of them worked very hard. I can’t thank all of them enough, and I would not have been here without them,” Gukesh concluded.