Ding Liren and Gukesh Dommaraju Compete in World Chess Championship

The World Chess Championship 2024 features a gripping match between defending champion Ding Liren and young challenger Gukesh Dommaraju, with both players currently tied at five points after ten games, including eight draws. Ding, who has faced personal challenges and played only 44 classical games since winning the title, is seen as an underdog despite his prior victory over Ian Nepomniachtchi. Gukesh, at just 18, has previously achieved historic wins, including becoming the youngest candidate champion. The match consists of 14 games, with the first player to reach 7.5 points declared the winner, and if necessary, tiebreaks will be held. Observers note Ding's conservative strategy and Gukesh's need to capitalize on his white pieces advantage, as he has historically performed better when playing as white. As the championship progresses, the tension mounts, highlighting the contrasting styles of the two players and the high stakes involved.