India’s D Gukesh is chasing history at the moment. While the entire nation sleeps in the hangover of IPL 2024, the 17-year-old from Chennai is just a win away from becoming only the second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to pocket chess’ biggest tournament — FIDE Candidates. The youngster is in a four-way battle for the title, along with the World No. 2 Fabiano Caruana, World No. 3 Hikaru Nakamura and World No. 7 Ian Nepomniachtchi.
How Can D Gukesh Win the FIDE Candidates 2024?
As per a report in ESPN.in, Gukesh needs to win his tie against Nakmura. With that he will have 9.5 points, that will be enough for him to take the title. And if Gukesh manages to pocket the title, he would be the youngest-ever challenger for the World Championship, in the history of the sport.
What Happens if D Gukesh Wins FIDE Candidates 2024?
Gukesh will then face world champion Ding Liren to take the title himself. It would be historic event in that case too, as he would be the youngest to win the World Championship. The current record is held by Garry Kasparov, who won his first world title at 22.
Championship Scenarios for Gukesh
Even if Gukesh plays a draw with Nakamura, he would be in contention to win the FIDE Candidates 2024. In case of a draw, he will have nine points, and will face the winner of the match between Nepomniachtchi and Caruana. But if the latter draw their match, Gukesh will win the title.
FIDE Candidates 2024 Leaderboard
D Gukesh (8.5)
Ian Nepomniachtchi, Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana (8)
R Praggnanandhaa (6)
Vidit Gujarathi (5.5)
Firouzja (4.5)
Editors pick
