D Gukesh’s journey to the World Chess Championship and the Ding clash

India’s 17-year-old chess prodigy, D Gukesh, is set to make history as he takes on reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the World Chess Championship from November 25 to December 12 in Singapore. This marks the first championship in history without any major American or European involvement, making it a monumental occasion for Asian chess.

Gukesh’s journey to this stage has been nothing short of extraordinary, defined by resilience, determination, and a series of remarkable performances.

The Turning Point: Chennai Grandmasters Victory

Gukesh’s path to the championship was arduous. After falling short in key events like the World Cup and the Grand Swiss, his final hope lay in the FIDE Circuit. The pivotal moment came at the Chennai Grandmasters tournament in 2023. A late addition to the circuit, this tournament granted him 20 crucial points for finishing first, propelling him into the top two of the FIDE Circuit standings and securing his place in the Candidates Tournament.

Mastering the Candidates Tournament

At the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, Gukesh delivered one of the finest performances of his career. Despite a single loss to Alireza Firouzja in Round 7, he kept seasoned opponents like Ian Nepomniachtchi and Fabiano Caruana at bay. Winning by half a point, he became the youngest challenger in World Chess Championship history.

Toronto marked the emergence of “Gukesh the Beast,” as he showcased immense composure and determination under pressure.

A Legacy of Resilience

Before his Candidates success, Gukesh shone at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, scoring 9 out of 10 points and pulling off a spectacular win against Wei Yi. This victory not only established his reputation but also showcased his ability to thrive in high-stakes environments.

Gukesh vs Ding: A Clash of Titans

Now, Gukesh faces Ding Liren, who became champion in 2022 after Magnus Carlsen stepped down. Ding has faced challenges in maintaining his dominance, while Gukesh enters the championship with growing confidence, having previously defeated both Ding and Carlsen in freestyle formats like Fischer Random Chess.

Gukesh’s rise represents a new era in Indian chess, with potential for greater heights, including an all-Indian championship in the near future. As he stands on the brink of history, Gukesh carries the hopes of a nation, ready to etch his name among the chess greats.