Unbelievable Upset: Gukesh Stuns Ding to Claim World Chess Championship
In a stunning turn of events at the 2024 World Chess Championship in Singapore, 18-year-old Indian challenger Dommaraju Gukesh pulled off an improbable victory over reigning champion Ding Liren of China.
A Remis-Bound Match, Until Disaster Struck
With only one classical game remaining and the match seemingly destined for a tiebreak, the odds were heavily stacked against Gukesh. Fritz and other chess engines estimated a 98% probability of a draw. However, fate had a different plan in store.
In a crucial moment, Ding Liren, a player renowned for his precision, made an uncharacteristic blunder. Attempting to simplify the endgame and force a quick draw, he overlooked a subtle trap set by Gukesh.
Gukesh’s Historic Win
Seizing the opportunity, Gukesh played a series of brilliant moves that exposed Ding’s vulnerable position. Ding, realizing the inevitability of defeat, resigned, handing Gukesh the championship and the $2.5 million prize fund.
A Hard-Fought Journey to the Top
Gukesh’s victory was the culmination of years of tireless dedication. Inspired by the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who lost the World Championship in his hometown to Magnus Carlsen in 2013, Gukesh vowed to bring the title back to India, the birthplace of chess.
The Winning Move
As Black, Gukesh exploited Ding’s blunder with a deft move:
1...Tf4-f2
This move threatened to capture both pawns on a4 and c2. Ding had no effective response, as taking on a5 would have lost the bishop on b3, and taking on c2 would have freed Gukesh’s king.
A Triumph for India
Gukesh’s victory was met with jubilation in India, where he is hailed as a national hero. His triumph is a testament to the country’s rich chess heritage and the determination of its young players to achieve greatness.
