World Champion Ding Liren Halts Losing Streak at Norway Chess Tournament
World champion Ding Liren managed to break his streak of defeats at the Norway Chess tournament in Stavanger by securing a draw against India’s 18-year-old Praggnanandhaa in Round 7. This draw was a welcome relief for Ding after suffering four consecutive losses in previous rounds. However, in the Armageddon battle that followed the draw, Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious over Ding.
Despite the draw being a step in the right direction for Ding, the result was bittersweet as he was in a winning position at one point but ultimately lost due to a lack of confidence. On the other hand, Praggnanandhaa has now defeated both the World No.1 Magnus Carlsen and World No.2 in the same event in the classical format, showcasing his impressive skills on the chessboard.
In a post-match assessment, Ding expressed his disappointment at his recent string of defeats, attributing his poor performance to not feeling well during the games. He also opened up about his struggles with depression earlier this year, highlighting the mental toll that competitive chess can take on players.
Chess legend Susan Polgar expressed concern for Ding’s current state, noting a decline in his performance and confidence since becoming world champion. She emphasized the importance of Ding seeking help to address his mental and emotional challenges before his upcoming world chess championship match against India’s Gukesh.
During the game against Praggnanandhaa, members of the chess community showed their support for Ding, acknowledging the difficulties that players face during challenging periods. Anna Muzychuk, who leads the women’s Norway Chess event, voiced her support for Ding and encouraged fellow players to rally around him during this tough time.
As Praggnanandhaa prepares to face Magnus Carlsen in the upcoming fixture, the chess world eagerly anticipates the outcome of this high-stakes matchup. Despite Carlsen’s lead in the standings, Praggnanandhaa’s recent victories have positioned him as a formidable contender in the tournament.
Overall, Ding’s struggles and Praggnanandhaa’s rise in the chess world have captivated fans and players alike, adding an element of drama and unpredictability to the Norway Chess tournament. The chess community remains hopeful for Ding’s resurgence and Praggnanandhaa’s continued success as the competition unfolds.