Shocking! Gukesh to pay more tax than MS Dhoni’s IPL salary

In a cricket-dominating nation, India’s Chess sensation D. Gukesh is going to pay more money in Tax than India’s one of the most celebrated cricketer MS Dhoni’s salary. The 18-year-old recently etched his name in the history books by defeating China’s Ding Liren in Singapore in the World Chess Championship with a tight score of 7.5-6.5 in 14 rounds of play. This feat makes him the youngest world chess champion, breaking the previous record held by Russian Grandmaster Gary Kasparov. This win is heralded across the country, celebrating a new and inspiring chapter in Indian chess history.

Gukesh’s tax liability

While Gukesh’s wins brings him international acclaim, it also presents a financial challenge with a tax liability of Rs 4.67 crore. This amount surpasses the entire IPL salary of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran, MS Dhoni, for the upcoming season. Despite worldwide admiration for his success, Gukesh faces considerable financial dues with his World Chess Championship earnings estimated at Rs 11.34 crore. His tax obligation of Rs 4.67 crore overshadows the Rs 4 crore salary of his idol, MS Dhoni, for IPL 2025.

Taxation overview in India

In India, individuals earning more than Rs 15 lakh are taxed at a rate of 30%. For earnings exceeding Rs 5 crore, an additional surcharge, potentially up to 37%, along with a 4% health and education levy, results in effective tax rates over 42%. From his total monetary haul of Rs 11.34 crore, Gukesh accumulated Rs 5.04 crore through three match victories, with the remainder derived from the Rs 21 crore prize pool divided according to FIDE’s rules.

Chess beyond money

Reflecting on his financial journey, Gukesh emphasised that chess has always been about passion and persistence rather than monetary gain. “Personally, money isn’t the reason I play chess,” he stated when questioned about his newfound millionaire status, further explaining, “It means a lot.”