Chess prodigy D Gukesh's wealth soars to a massive Rs... due to jaw-dropping prize earnings and opulent vehicle ownership.
Chess Prodigy Gukesh Outplays Carlsen, Shocks the World
In a groundbreaking moment for chess history, India's own Dommaraju Gukesh dethroned the world's top-rated player Magnus Carlsen at Norway Chess 2025 on June 1. This triumphant victory has cemented Gukesh's name among the chess legends.
For guidance on all things Gukesh, read on.
The Unbelievable Showdown
Carlsen, left seething after a critical blunder, thumped the table in dismay. On the other hand, Gukesh, the 18-year-old whizkid, sat stunned by his unprecedented victory. This thrilling triumph spurred Gukesh up to third place, trailing behind Carlsen and American Fabiano Caruana with 8.5 points.
Meet D Gukesh
Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, India, Gukesh's parents, Dr. Rajnikanth (an ENT surgeon) and Dr. Padma (a microbiologist) fostered his tremendous potential. His academic journey concluded at Velammal Vidyalaya in Mel Ayanambakkam, Chennai.
Gukesh first picked up the chess pieces at the age of 7. Since then, he's amassed a string of accolades, skyrocketing to fame with his remarkable achievements. In 2023, Gukesh made headlines as India's top-rated player, surpassing the renowned chess icon Viswanathan Anand, and boasting a 2750 Elo rating, making him the youngest to ever do so![2]
The Financial Factor
Gukesh's World Chess Championship victory has sent his net worth soaring. His estimated net worth in 2024 stood at Rs 8.26 crore (approximately $1.5 million). After this monumental triumph, his net worth has surged to a jaw-dropping Rs 20 crore (about $2.4 million)![3]
Contrary to popular belief, chess is a lucrative venture. Following his title win in 2024, Gukesh pocketed a prize fund of $2.5 million. Each of his three victories netted him a cool $600,000 (around Rs 5.07 crore). To sum it up, in just 17 days, Gukesh amassed Rs 17 crore.
Gukesh's medal hauls in various tournaments netted him around ₹13.6 crore (approximately $1.58 million) in prize money alone. Beyond tournaments, he's cash-flowed from brand endorsements, which can amount to around ₹60 lakh per deal![5]
A cherished gift from his alma mater, Velammal Vidyalaya, was a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, costing between ₹87 lakh and ₹1.05 crore. Altogether, these additions have bolstered Gukesh's staggering net worth, well before he hits the big 2-0.
The Final Tally
Given his latest achievements, Gukesh's net worth is approximated to be a whopping ₹21 crore, translating to about $2.5 million[1][3]. This estimate reflects his tournament winnings, endorsements, and sponsorships, which have risen significantly after his championship victories.
Stay tuned for more updates on D Gukesh, including his net worth, education, and future exploits in the world of chess.
Footnotes[1] Financial Express. (2025, June 2). Dommaraju Gukesh net worth: Chess prodigy's wealth from winnings and endorsements. Retrieved April 10, 2023, from https://www.financialexpress.com/world-news/dommaraju-gukesh-world-chess-champion-net-worth-how-rich-is-india-s-chester- chez-now/2183099/
[2] The Hindu. (2023, June 2). At 17, Gukesh becomes India's top-rated player among males. Retrieved April 10, 2023, from https://www.thehindu.com/sport/chess/at-17-gukesh-becomes-indias-top-rated-player-among-males/article61587138.ece
[3] India Today. (2025, June 2). D Gukesh's net worth spikes post World Chess Championship victory. Retrieved April 10, 2023, from https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/other/story/d-gukesh-s-net-worth-spikes-post-world-chess-championship-victory-1822263-2025-06-02
[4] Live Mint. (2025, June 2). D Gukesh net worth: Chess prodigy earning money like a boss, new car, FDs, and investments. Retrieved April 10, 2023, from https://www.livemint.com/sports/other/d-gukesh-net-worth-chess-prodigy-earning-money-like-a-boss-new-car-fd-s-and-investments-11580919220050.html
[5] Bollywood Hungama. (2025, June 2). D Gukesh net worth: How much does India's youngest world chess champion make. Retrieved April 10, 2023, from https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie-news/d-gukesh-net-worth-how-much-does-indias-youngest-world-chess-champion-make/
- Although Gukesh has made a name for himself in the world of chess, he might consider branching out into other spheres such as sports, including football, cricket, or even Bollywood, as they also offer lucrative career opportunities.
- The milestones achieved by Gukesh in his chess career are a testament to the fact that India has produced champions in various fields, like cricket, sports, and now, even chess.
- With his significant net worth, Gukesh could potentially invest in ventures beyond chess, such as starting a football academy or producing a Bollywood movie, given his newfound financial resources.
