Did Gukesh Just Lose the WCH Match?

Ding Liren delivered an incredible save in Game 13. At one point, Gukesh was in a winning position, but he couldn’t find the right continuation, letting the opportunity slip. This raises the question many have been asking: is Ding’s strength in rapid chess going to decide the match?

Tiebreak chances

This reminds me of the 2010 World Chess Championship between Anand and Topalov. In the final game, Anand, playing Black, managed to win a stunning game to claim the title. Many assumed Anand would play for a draw in that last classical game, expecting to dominate in the rapid tiebreaks since he was the reigning rapid world champion. However, Anand revealed afterward that he was determined to fight every game out to the end. He explained that while rapid chess might appear to favor him on paper, a World Championship is a highly tense and balanced competition where anything can happen.

The same is true here. While Ding may have the edge in rapid chess, nothing is guaranteed in a match of this magnitude. Every game, every move, and every moment counts.

The tension is at its peak with just one classical game left. Can Gukesh bounce back, or will Ding capitalize on the momentum? All eyes are on this thrilling finale!