World Chess Championship 2024: D Gukesh Survives Dramatic Game 5 Against Ding Liren
Mumbai, India - In a tightly contested game that spanned over two hours, young Indian chess sensation D Gukesh managed to cling to his hopes of winning the FIDE World Chess Championship title by drawing with defending champion Ding Liren in Game 5 on Saturday.
As predicted, both players remained evenly matched throughout the match, which saw both sides trading victories and draws. The Indian prodigy initially trailed behind after losing a game to start things off strong for the reigning champion. However, Gukesh displayed incredible resilience by clawing his way back into contention with several crucial draws in succeeding games.
In Game 3, what seemed like an inconsequential draw turned out to be a lifeline, as it paved the path for him catching up and ultimately ending Game 5 on equal footing. Although Ding Liren began gaining momentum with a win in midfield after exchanging pieces with Grench, the young Indian persisted under intense pressure from the champion.
Notably, both players took turns displaying an abundance of skill in this tactical duel as the stakes grew higher by the minute. When time ran out for either to secure an outright victory - each side were left agonizing over less than 30 seconds at the end - they decided jointly that all was fair on a draw, effectively leveling up the match score.
Break-Down of Scores
The two remaining games are crucial as it stands right now; in them lies the fate of the title. By one margin higher currently with Ding having won Game 1 and securing early momentum. Gukesh responded well to win that turning Game 3, only then did he set up an equalizing draw.
Road To Victory Laced With Uncertainty
To be crowned the FIDE World Chess Champion, a player must reach or surpass a total of seven full points across all 14 available matches. Each game in essence is a match where victory stands for one point and losing results zero. A break could be required at the tournament's midpoint under specific circumstances.
Historical Significance Looms Large
As history suggests that no player with Asian origin has won it since India itself hasn't achieved the title until 1984, it now becomes an Asian vs a non-Asian showdown after in 138 years what is one for the records.
This grand tournament features an enticing prize fund of $2.5 million this year - something the previous versions are unable to beat.