Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh recently made history by winning the World Chess Championship. The 18-year-old defeated China’s Ding Liren to claim the title, becoming the youngest champion in history. After his remarkable performance in the championship, Gukesh received a hefty prize money. However, the World Chess Champion will have to pay a significant amount in taxes, which is higher than MS Dhoni’s IPL 2025 salary. Dhoni was retained by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the 18th IPL season at ₹4 crore.
Gukesh to Pay 42.5% Tax
Gukesh earned a substantial $1.3 million (₹11.34 crore) as his share of the $2.5 million prize money for winning the championship, including ₹5.04 crore from victories in three matches. However, he will have to pay 42.5% tax, amounting to ₹4.67 crore. This leaves him with a net amount of ₹6.67 crore. Gukesh secured the title with a final score of 7.5 points in the 14-game series, while Ding Liren finished with 6.5 points. The decisive classical game, which seemed headed for a draw at one point, sealed his victory.
‘I Don’t Play Chess for Money’
For Gukesh, becoming a millionaire holds significant value. When asked about what being a millionaire means to him, Gukesh told FIDE, “It means a lot. When I started playing chess, we had to make some tough decisions as a family. My parents went through financial and emotional hardships. Now, we are more comfortable, and my parents don’t have to worry about such things anymore.” He added, “Personally, I don’t play chess for money.”
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‘I Still Love Chess Like I Did as a Child’
Gukesh always tries to remember why he started playing chess in the first place, recalling the joy of receiving his first chessboard. “I’m still the same child who loves chess. It used to be my favorite toy,” said the new World Champion. He also shared his mother’s words: She still says, ‘I’d be happy to know you are a great chess player, but I’d be happier to know you are a great person.’