Gukesh Suffers First Classical Chess Defeat Ahead of World Championship Clash

The chess world was left stunned as 18-year-old prodigy Gukesh suffered his first loss in classical format in 38 games against Russian grandmaster Dmitry Andreikin at the European Club Cup 2024. This defeat comes just a month before Gukesh’s highly anticipated World Chess Championship duel with reigning champion Ding Liren.

Gukesh, who has been on a remarkable run towards achieving a 2800 rating in classical chess, reached a peak rating of 2794 earlier this month. However, his loss to Andreikin has seen his live rating drop to 2788.5. The Indian teenager has been in top form, winning the individual gold medal at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest and remaining unbeaten at the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis.

With his eye firmly set on the World Chess Championship title, Gukesh has been preparing diligently for the showdown with Ding Liren. The FIDE World Chess Championship 2024, presented by Google, is set to take place in Singapore from November 23 to December 13. Gukesh earned his spot in the championship by winning the Candidates tournament earlier this year.

As the chess world eagerly awaits the clash between Gukesh and Ding Liren, fans can now purchase tickets for the historic event. The first match of the championship is scheduled for November 25, promising an intense battle between the young Indian challenger and the reigning world champion.