Ding Liren, the chess king from China who defies the odds

Ding Liren’s journey to becoming the first Chinese World Chess Champion is a testament to resilience. Rising from modest beginnings, he became the youngest Chinese national champion at 16, leading to a series of historic achievements, including two Olympiad golds and a record-breaking 100-game unbeaten streak. However, his road was far from smooth; he faced challenges and even took a hiatus in 2024 for mental health. Ding’s recent comeback showcases his determination to maintain his status among the chess elite | Photo: FIDE / Stev Bonhage