14-Year-Old Ghanaian Boy Becomes Youngest-Ever National Chess Champion

Fourteen-year-old Ghanaian chess prodigy Philip Selikem Amoako made history as the youngest-ever national chess champion during the 2024 Ghana National Chess Championship, showcasing exceptional skill and inspiring young enthusiasts globally.

A 14-year-old chess prodigy from Ghana, Philip Selikem Amoako, has made history as the youngest-ever national chess champion during the 2024 Ghana National Chess Championship.

The tournament, held from January 2 to 5, 2025, at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra, showcased Philip’s extraordinary talent and composure. Competing in a 10-player round-robin format against seasoned professionals, including a chess master, Philip emerged victorious with an unbeaten 7.5/9 score, outperforming international competitors.

Philip first gained national attention in 2021 at the age of 11 when he won a silver medal at the African Youth Chess Championships. That accomplishment earned him the title of Candidate Master, making him the youngest Ghanaian to receive the honor.

Beyond his chess achievements, Philip is a well-rounded individual with a passion for both intellectual and physical pursuits. He trains with Ghana’s national athletics team and is also an avid lawn tennis player, balancing his mental and physical development.

Philip has had the privilege of meeting some of the world’s greatest chess players, including Magnus Carlsen, Ding Liren, and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. He was honored to make the ceremonial first move between Carlsen and Vachier-Lagrave during the London Chess Classics, further cementing his status as a rising star in the chess world.

Looking ahead, Philip hopes to compete in international tournaments and secure scholarships to support his education, as he continues to inspire young chess enthusiasts across Africa and beyond.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP REGION