D Gukesh defeats Vincent Keymer in a long battle at Tata Steel Chess tournament

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh emerged victorious in a thrilling 72-move battle against Vincent Keymer at the Tata Steel Chess tournament in Wijk aan Zee. The win not only marked a significant milestone in Gukesh’s career but also saw him surpass Arjun Erigaisi to become the new India No. 1 in live ratings.

Playing with the white pieces, Gukesh displayed exceptional skill and determination against Keymer, despite facing some early challenges. The German grandmaster, who was one of Gukesh’s Seconds during the match, tried to tire out his opponent with a strategic approach. However, Gukesh maintained his composure and eventually secured a pawn advantage in the middle game.

Keymer, who is a former junior world no. 1 and highly regarded in the chess community, fought valiantly until the 72nd move before conceding defeat to Gukesh’s superior gameplay. The Indian prodigy’s victory was a testament to his experience and tactical prowess on the board.

In a post-match interview, Gukesh credited his Seconds for their support and preparation leading up to the game. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the game at hand, regardless of the opponent, and expressed gratitude for the close bond he shares with his team.

Keymer, reflecting on his role as Gukesh’s Second in Singapore, highlighted the strategic preparations made for the match. He praised Gukesh’s approach to time management and emphasized the importance of avoiding time trouble to maintain control during gameplay.

With Gukesh’s rise to the top of the Indian chess rankings and Keymer’s impressive performance in the tournament, both players have solidified their positions as rising stars in the world of chess. The intense battle between the two grandmasters captivated audiences and showcased the strategic brilliance and competitive spirit of the game.