10 Youngest Grandmasters in the world!

The chess world has been graced by prodigious talents who have achieved the esteemed title of Grandmaster (GM) at remarkably young ages. These young GMs hail from diverse backgrounds, and their lifestyles often reflect a blend of rigorous training and personal interests. Here are the ten youngest Grandmasters as of February 2025:

1. Abhimanyu Mishra (USA) – 12 years, 4 months, 25 days
   • Achievement: Became the world’s youngest GM on June 30, 2021.
   • Background: Hailing from New Jersey, Abhimanyu’s journey to GM was marked by intensive training and support from his family. Beyond chess, he enjoys playing table tennis and reading.
2. Sergey Karjakin (Ukraine) – 12 years, 7 months
   • Achievement: Held the record for youngest GM for 19 years.
   • Background: Born in Simferopol, Karjakin’s early dedication to chess led him to challenge for the World Championship in 2016. He is known for his strategic depth and resilience.
3. Gukesh Dommaraju (India) – 12 years, 7 months, 17 days
   • Achievement: Achieved GM title in 2019.
   • Background: From Chennai, Gukesh’s disciplined approach to chess has propelled him to the elite levels. He balances his chess career with academic pursuits and enjoys music.
4. Javokhir Sindarov (Uzbekistan) – 12 years, 10 months, 5 days
   • Achievement: Earned GM title in 2018.
   • Background: Sindarov’s rapid ascent in the chess world is complemented by his interest in mathematics and literature.
5. Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu (India) – 12 years, 10 months, 13 days
   • Achievement: Became a GM in 2018.
   • Background: Also from Chennai, Praggnanandhaa is celebrated for his sharp tactical play. He enjoys swimming and has a keen interest in science.
6. Nodirbek Abdusattorov (Uzbekistan) – 13 years, 1 month, 11 days
   • Achievement: Achieved GM status in 2017.
   • Background: Abdusattorov’s commitment to chess is evident in his disciplined training regimen. He also enjoys playing football and spending time with family.
7. Parimarjan Negi (India) – 13 years, 4 months, 22 days
   • Achievement: Became a GM in 2006.
   • Background: Negi balanced his chess career with academic excellence, later pursuing higher education at Stanford University.
8. Magnus Carlsen (Norway) – 13 years, 4 months, 27 days
   • Achievement: Achieved GM title in 2004.
   • Background: Carlsen’s intuitive and versatile playing style led him to become World Chess Champion. Outside chess, he enjoys sports and has modeled for various brands.
9. Wei Yi (China) – 13 years, 8 months, 23 days
   • Achievement: Became a GM in 2013.
   • Background: Known for his aggressive play, Wei Yi has been a leading figure in Chinese chess. He enjoys reading and has a passion for history.
10. Bu Xiangzhi (China) – 13 years, 10 months, 13 days
    • Achievement: Achieved GM status in 1999.
    • Background: Bu’s consistent performance over the years has made him a mainstay in international chess. He is interested in calligraphy and classical music.

These young Grandmasters exemplify the convergence of talent, hard work, and support. Their lifestyles, while centered around chess, also encompass diverse interests that contribute to their holistic development.