Liren Ding has not lost a classical game in a very long time. In addition, he has just won the Sinquefield Cup over Magnus. I understand that it was on tiebreaks, but it shows that he is able to compete up there. His current elo is 2811. He is ranked 4th among all the players in the world, and 3rd among active players.
Ding also has a chip on his shoulder, as he is the first ever person from China to cross 2800 elo.
Could this be the next World Champion over Magnus?
If you think yes, join Liren Ding next WC
I don't think so. I like Ding, but have a look at the last years: There were several players who rushed to the second place, seemingly being able to pass Magnus Carlsen. Mamedyarov, So, Caruana, Vachier-Lagrave... None of them could hold his level for more than nine or ten months.
Meanwhile that is true, Ding is still so young. He has not yet had his chance to go for Magnus. His win at the Sinquefield cup shows his grit, and determination. Yet, only time will tell
Ding is one of the most exciting players also-Be sure to check out the team:
Liren Ding next WC
Magnus could still hold it though
Can he? Yes i think so, Magnus played very passive vs Fabio in the last WC, because he thought, he will win the shorter time controls. Ding winning vs Magnus in tie breaks might lead to Magnus pushing more in classical. Magnus already lost games in the past, because he pushed to hard.
However, I still think Magnus has an edge on Ding and if they face eachother in the next WC, I think Magnus is the favourite. Imho he had a bad day vs Ding. Magnus also has quite and edge in the standings of the grand chess tour, which indicates, he is still the best player.
Magnus vs Ding would be a nice world championships, but for that Ding has to win the candidates tournament.
