Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren, the reigning World Chess Champion, will put his title on the line against India’s rising star D Gukesh later in the year. The 18-year-old Gukesh emerged as a surprise contender when he won the Candidates Chess tournament in April. His shock win in Toronto has upped the excitement level in India, a country witnessing an uptick in interest in chess. This surge has been helped by the emergence of other young chess players like R Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, and R Vaishali. The interest is such that Delhi and Chennai have reportedly put their candidature to host the World Championship match. Singapore, too, is reportedly in the running. However, Liren would prefer to play the World Championship Final in Singapore and not in India. “If I can choose, I hope the World Championship happens in Singapore. I am not so eager to visit India for the championship final. People will support Gukesh if I play in India,” said Liren. Liren also shared his thoughts about Gukesh’s game and added, “Gukesh has had a phenomenal rise to the top. I am looking forward to meeting him at the end of the year. He (Gukesh) is a strong opponent. He has performed really well. He is a guy to watch.” Speaking about the young Indian Chess players, Liren said, “There are so many young talents in India. They are among the world’s top ten. I have a lot of plans in India.” The Chinese Grandmaster named Magnus Carlsen as the toughest opponent he’s faced and labelled him as the “G.O.A.T. of chess.” In the interview, Liren also spoke about his ongoing performance at the Norway Chess tournament, battle with mental health and the need to take time out.
Ding Liren, D Gukesh to Clash for World Chess Championship Title
