The World Chess Championship between D Gukesh and Ding Liren continues to be a captivating battle of wits, with Game 10 ending in yet another draw. This marks the seventh consecutive draw in the match, keeping the score level at 5-5. With just four games remaining, the tension is palpable as both players approach the final stretch of this closely fought contest.
Game 10 saw a more cautious approach from both players. Ding Liren, playing with the white pieces, opted for the London System, a solid and reliable opening choice. This marked a departure from his recent strategy of employing diverse opening systems to keep Gukesh guessing. The game progressed with both players carefully maneuvering their pieces, avoiding any unnecessary risks.
Neither player was able to gain a significant advantage throughout the game. The position remained balanced, with both sides demonstrating accurate and strategic play. Gukesh, playing with the black pieces, was content with a draw, acknowledging that it was a "good result" with black.
With the match now effectively a best-of-four contest, the pressure is mounting on both players. Every decision carries greater weight, as a single mistake could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the championship. Gukesh acknowledged the increased stakes, stating that "the cost of one game now is higher than it was before."
The possibility of tiebreaks looms large as the match progresses towards its conclusion. If the score remains tied after 14 games, the championship will be decided by a series of rapid and blitz games. Ding Liren, who won the previous World Championship in a rapid tiebreak, will be confident in his abilities should the match reach this stage. However, Gukesh, despite having a lower rapid rating, is a formidable opponent who cannot be underestimated.
Chess legend Susan Polgar, commenting on the match, noted that Ding Liren seems content to "chill his way into the rapid and blitz playoffs." She believes that Gukesh will need to take more risks to break the deadlock and avoid a tiebreak scenario.
The World Chess Championship is heading towards a nail-biting finish. With four games remaining, the tension is building as Gukesh and Ding Liren prepare for the final showdown. Both players have demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the match, making it difficult to predict a clear favorite. The upcoming games promise to be filled with excitement and strategic brilliance as the two grandmasters battle for the coveted title of World Chess Champion. The chess world eagerly awaits the final chapter of this enthralling contest.
