World Championship Game 1: A shocking start, as Ding takes bold approach to win with black

The World Chess Championship in Singapore began with a bang as reigning champion Ding Liren delivered a stunning victory over 18-year-old challenger Gukesh D in game 1. Despite entering the match as an underdog, Ding’s bold strategy and strategic brilliance with the black pieces earned him an early lead. While the young Indian prodigy struggled with nerves, his resilience and steady rise suggest he is far from out of contention. | Photo: FIDE / Eng Chin An