The 2024 World Chess Championship is down to the final game, and all eyes are now on India's D Gukesh as he faces reigning champion Ding Liren of China for the ultimate showdown. With the scores tied at 6.5-6.5, Gukesh has one last chance to secure the title and make history.

Wednesday’s 13th game was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Gukesh, with white pieces, pushed hard with an aggressive strategy, but Liren, the 17th World Champion, defended brilliantly. The game saw intense moments, especially when Gukesh appeared to have the upper hand in the middle game, only for Liren to respond with precise moves and escape with a draw after 68 moves.

Despite the pressure, Gukesh, just 18 years old, showed poise and confidence, making every move count. The final game, scheduled for Thursday, is now set to decide who will take the crown.

Gukesh Reflects on the Moment
In a post-game interview, Gukesh spoke about the incredible opportunity before him. "This is something every chess player wants to experience, and I have the chance. I will enjoy it and give it my best. Whatever the outcome is, I will enjoy it," he said. His words reflected his maturity and focus, despite the high stakes of the match.

He also took a moment to honour Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand, who celebrated his birthday on the same day. "Vishy Anand has been an inspiration and a role model for me and millions of others, and I am glad I could play on the same level he played for many years," he said. For Gukesh, playing at this level, with such history behind him, is a dream come true.

The Golden Game Ahead
With the final game looming, Liren was quick to acknowledge the pressure of what lies ahead. "It is a golden game," he said. Tired after a long, drawn-out battle in Game 13, the Chinese Grandmaster now has to regroup and prepare for one last challenge. His experience will be key, especially as he enters the game with white pieces, which often provides an advantage in chess.

A Championship on the Line
If the final game ends in a draw, both players will face a tie-breaker, which could be even more unpredictable. If Liren wins, he will retain his title as World Champion. But if Gukesh triumphs, he will become the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, a remarkable achievement for someone so young.

The chess world is watching closely, waiting to see if Gukesh can pull off the win and write a new chapter in the sport’s history.

With agency inputs