World Chess Championship: Gukesh Defeats Ding in a Stunning Third-Round Victory!

In a historic turn of events at the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship, India's 18-year-old prodigy, D. Gukesh, secured a remarkable victory over reigning champion Ding Liren in the third round, held at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore. This triumph not only marks Gukesh's first classical win against Ding but also levels the championship score at 1.5-1.5, igniting fervent celebrations across India.

The match commenced with Gukesh employing a strategic opening that posed significant challenges for Ding. Despite Ding's efforts to navigate the complexities, a critical error forced him to sacrifice a bishop for two pawns. Gukesh capitalized on this advantage, and under severe time pressure, Ding ultimately succumbed, leading to Gukesh's victory after 37 moves.

Gukesh's performance has been met with widespread acclaim. Reflecting on his win, he stated, "It feels great! Also, the last two days I was happy with my play — today was even better. I feel good at the board. Today I just managed to outplay my opponent."

The victory has resonated deeply within India, a nation with a rich chess heritage. Celebrations erupted nationwide, with fans expressing immense pride in Gukesh's achievement. Social media platforms were abuzz with congratulatory messages, and public screenings of the match drew large, enthusiastic crowds.

As the championship progresses, all eyes remain on Gukesh as he continues to challenge the established hierarchy in the chess world. The next game is scheduled for Friday, November 29, following a rest day, and is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in this closely contested championship.

For those interested in a detailed analysis of the game, Chess.com provides an in-depth breakdown, highlighting the strategic nuances that led to Gukesh's victory.

This victory not only signifies a personal milestone for Gukesh but also underscores India's growing prominence in the global chess arena. The nation's chess enthusiasts eagerly await the forthcoming rounds, hopeful for further triumphs from their young champion.