Chess Olympiad 2022: D. Gukesh shines with eight successive wins, Pia Cramling makes history at 59

At the Chennai Chess Olympiad in 2022, two chess players from different generations shone brightly, showcasing their skills and passion for the game. D. Gukesh, a 16-year-old prodigy, dominated the top board for India-2, securing eight consecutive wins and claiming the individual gold medal in the open section. On the other hand, Pia Cramling, a seasoned Swedish Grandmaster at 59, emerged victorious in the women’s event, proving her enduring talent and competitive spirit.

Cramling, a former World No. 1 and trailblazer for women in chess, expressed her delight at the increasing recognition of women’s chess. She is set to compete in the Norway Chess tournament, where equal prize money for both men and women highlights the progress in gender equality within the sport. Cramling emphasized the importance of such initiatives in empowering female players and fostering a more inclusive chess community.

Despite her age, Cramling remains motivated by her love for the game and the joy it brings her. Her dedication to chess has been unwavering throughout her career, culminating in memorable victories like the Olympiad gold in Chennai. Reflecting on her experience at the tournament, Cramling praised the exceptional organization and competitive atmosphere that made it a standout event in her long chess career.

As Gukesh continues to ascend in the chess world and prepares to challenge Ding Liren for the World Championship, Cramling sees a bright future for the young talent. Having faced Gukesh in a previous match, she acknowledges his potential and believes the pressure will be on Ding to defend his title. With a shared passion for the game, both Gukesh and Cramling exemplify the enduring appeal and competitive spirit of chess across generations.