The chess world is in a frenzy after Ding Liren’s defeat to India’s D Gukesh in the final match of the World Chess Championship 2024. Gukesh at 18 years old achieved the history of youngest world champion but Russian Chess Federation boss Andrei Filatov has claimed that Ding Liren might have lost on purpose to Gukesh. Filatov has called for an investigation into what he termed “suspicious actions” by the Chinese grandmaster.
Filatov voiced uncertainty regarding Ding’s actions during the deciding game, saying that they were unnatural, too unlike a top player. The behavior of the Chinese player in the last seconds looks purposeful. To lose from this position is almost a sure defeat even for a top player, Filatov counseled, calling for FIDE to investigate whether Ding cunningly lost against Gukesh.
Gukesh’s Triumph Amid Controversy
Even in the face of the allegations, the Gukesh Grand Prize has been hailed as a historical event in Indian chess. The Chennai resident with scores of 7.5 to Ding’s 6.5 won the championship. The victory, which initially seemed headed for a draw, saw Gukesh capitalizing on Ding’s critical error.
Gukesh, coached by Indian chess grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, called the win a dream realization. “I’ve dreamed of this moment for the past 10 years, Gukesh said, visibly emotional after his win. He wins $1.3 million first place from a $2.5 million prize pool.
Investigations Loom Against Ding Liren’s Defeat to D Gukesh
Although the chess community congratulated Gukesh, the controversy surrounding Ding Liren has stained the historic victory. FIDE has not yet divulged whether it will initiate an inquiry into whether Ding intentionally lost to Gukesh.
The debate has led to discussion among the chess community on ethics and the constraints on top players in pressure-filled games. At present, the emphasis is on Gukesh’s remarkable feat and the legacy he does carry onward.
Also, see: Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh becomes youngest world chess champion of all time