New Delhi: Gukesh D, who will be up against Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship clash, said that he knows he needs to be the “best version of himself” in every game of the tournament against Liren. The clash starts on Monday in Singapore and the chess world isn’t keeping calm. The clash will last for 14 games scheduled till December 12 and the tiebreak round (if required) on December 13.
While Gukesh has been going great lately, the Chinese grandmaster has struggled in the lead-up to the prestigious event. “For me, it’s pretty clear who I’m going to face. I’m going to face Ding Liren, who has been one of the best players in the world for more than a decade,” Gukesh spoke at the pre-tournament press conference, as quoted by PTI.
“My job is also pretty clear, just go into every game as the best version of myself and play the best moves in the position. If I do that, if I keep playing good chess and stay in the right spirits, even with his recent form dip or even at his best, I don’t think it really matters. If I do the right things, I’m confident I have all the chances in the world,” he added.
This edition of the tournament marks the first time in 138 years that two Asian players will be up against each other in the World Chess Championship, which is offering a prize money of USD 2.5 million. “It’s an honour and privilege to play for India in any event, especially something as significant as the World Championship. Representing my country and carrying the hopes of Indians is something I take very seriously,” Gukesh added.
I can handle nerves – Gukesh
The 18-year-old chess grandmaster from Chennai acknowledged the nerves ahead of the grand event saying that he knows it’s a big event and he is super excited. He also said that he can handle any nerves and as long as he is confident in his skills he doesn’t have anything to worry about.
Liren, who was also present at the conference, talked about facing Gukesh. “Last time I played against Nepu (Ian Nepomniachtchi), he was older than me. But here, I am the older one, and I have more experience than him. He is younger, but he displayed his virtue in many aspects. If we can both perform our best, it will be a great match,” the 32-year-old said.
Gukesh D reflected on his road to become a potential World Chess Champion as he will be up against Chinese grand master Ding Liren in Singapore from Monday. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
