World Chess Championship Match: Ding Liren and D Gukesh Tied at 4-4 After Eight Games

The World Chess Championship match between Ding Liren and challenger D Gukesh has reached a thrilling point, with the score tied at 4-4 after eight games. In Game 8, played on Wednesday, the momentum shifted back and forth in a tense battle that ultimately ended in a draw after 51 moves of intense chess.

The game saw Ding Liren surprising everyone with a different opening move, opting for the English Opening, while Gukesh responded with the Reverse Sicilian. Gukesh’s innovative opening ideas caught Ding off guard, leading to a complex and strategic battle on the board.

Despite being slightly better positioned towards the end of the game, Gukesh turned down Ding’s offer for a draw and continued to play on. Both players fought for initiative, but the game eventually ended in a draw with opposite-colored bishops on the board.

In the post-game press conferences, both players shared their thoughts on the game, with Gukesh acknowledging his missed chances and Ding expressing his familiarity with tense matches. Both players seemed relieved and cheerful despite the grueling nature of the game.

Accompanied by their parents in Singapore, Gukesh’s father and Ding’s mother provide support and care for the players during the intense competition. With six more classical games remaining in the match, the world is eagerly anticipating the outcome of this closely contested World Chess Championship.