Challenger D Gukesh expressed his disappointment after losing Game 12 of the World Chess Championship on Monday, marking a significant moment in the closely contested battle against reigning champion Ding Liren. The defeat came just a day after Gukesh’s stunning victory in Game 11, which had ended a streak of seven consecutive draws and placed the 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster in a commanding position. Liren’s Game 12 win not only leveled the score at 6-6 but also underscored the dramatic unpredictability of the championship being held in Singapore.
Gukesh, widely hailed as one of the brightest stars in the chess world, had showcased remarkable composure and skill during Game 11, taking the lead in the 14-game title match. His victory was celebrated as a potentially decisive step toward becoming the youngest World Chess Champion in history. However, Liren, a player renowned for his resilience and strategic brilliance, struck back with what many experts have described as a career-defining performance. Legendary chess icon Susan Polgar lauded Liren’s Game 12 effort, calling it his best display in over two years and highlighting the precision and determination he brought to the board.
Addressing the media at the Equarius Hotel at Resorts World Sentosa, the championship venue, Gukesh reflected on the challenges of maintaining focus and momentum in such a high-pressure environment. “6-6 is overall a fair result, but since I was leading after yesterday, it is a bit disappointing to lose this game,” he admitted, his voice tinged with the moment's weight. He maintained, however, that perspective was crucial, adding, “At least the score is still tied, and two more games are remaining. Today was obviously a bad game, but I wouldn’t draw too much from it. Bad games happen. If you look at the second half overall, I think we are both playing better than in the first half.”
The championship has been a showcase of skill, strategy, and mental fortitude, with both players experiencing highs and lows. Liren initially claimed the lead with a victory in Game 1, utilizing the black pieces to assert early dominance. Gukesh, however, quickly responded with a win in Game 3, setting the stage for a tense sequence of draws as both players probed each other’s defenses. Gukesh’s breakthrough in Game 11 appeared to tilt the balance in his favor, but Liren’s commanding comeback in Game 12 ensured that the championship remains finely poised.
Liren’s ability to rise to the occasion under intense pressure has become a hallmark of his career. The Chinese Grandmaster famously fought back from deficits during last year’s World Championship against Ian Nepomniachtchi, coming from behind three times and eventually securing the title in a dramatic tie-breaker. Reflecting on his preparation for the critical Game 12, Liren shared his approach to maintaining focus and energy. “Today I had a cup of coffee before the game, which helped me feel much more energetic,” he revealed with a smile. “I also spent time in the players’ lounge to take the same snacks and rest a little bit, ensuring I could sustain my energy levels during critical moments.” Describing his Game 12 performance, Liren said, “It’s maybe the best game I have played in recent times. It’s a very important game, and I am happy with how I managed to handle the situation.”
The stakes have never been higher as the championship enters its final stretch. With only two games remaining, the pressure on both players is immense. Each move now carries the weight of a potential championship-defining moment, and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the outcome of Game 13, scheduled to resume after a rest day on Tuesday. The duel between Gukesh and Liren has not only captivated the chess community but also drawn widespread attention as a testament to the enduring allure of the sport at its highest level.
