Exciting Developments at the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament: Co-Leaders with Two Rounds to Go

In the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, the competition is heating up with three co-leaders emerging with just two rounds to go. Grandmasters Ian Nepomniachtchi, Hikaru Nakamura, and Gukesh Dommaraju are all tied at the top of the standings. Nakamura scored a crucial victory against Alireza Firouzja, while Gukesh defeated Nijat Abasov to catch up with Nepomniachtchi, who settled for a draw against Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu. Meanwhile, Fabiano Caruana is just half a point behind the leaders after defeating Vidit Gujrathi.

In the Women’s Candidates Tournament, GM Tan Zhongyi continues to lead the pack after surviving a lost position against IM Nurgyul Salimova. Lei Tingjie is close behind, trailing by just half a point after failing to convert a winning position against Kateryna Lagno. GM-elect Vaishali Rameshbabu, who had a rough start with four consecutive losses, has now won three games in a row, including a victory against Anna Muzychuk in the only decisive game of the round.

With the final two rounds approaching, the tension is high as the players battle it out for the chance to play World Champion Ding Liren. Nakamura, with the most wins in the tournament so far, has the best odds of winning, but the competition is fierce with Nepomniachtchi, Gukesh, and Caruana all in contention.

The tournament is wide open, and all four players have a realistic shot at claiming victory. As the players gear up for the final rounds, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. Stay tuned for the thrilling conclusion of the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament.