Grivas about the World Cup games 13 + 14

Game 13

A strange game where Gukesh came with new ideas early and had some really good chances to prevail after some inaccuracy from his opponent. However, as in some of the previous games, Ding escaped some difficult moments and in the end he had no real problems securing the draw. The missed opportunity on move 31 will be particularly remembered as Gukesh could gain a large and probably soon material advantage that could bring him very close to winning the world championship. But after missing it, Ding played with accuracy and gave his opponent no chance of anything more than a draw.

The players at the press conference. Photos by Eric Rosen

It appears that the young challenger is missing some important qualities; In other words, you could say that he is hardly ready for the world title. Patience and concrete decisions should be the most important missing qualities, but of course no one should underestimate the great excitement that the game for the world title brings with it!

Game 14

The final classic game of the 2024 FIDE World Championship game started well for Ding. After a reverse opening (a case that happened so often in this game), White seemed to be doing well, but it was “obvious” that Ding lacked the energy necessary to put his opponent under pressure. Gukesh had a good position in which Ding even gave up a pawn to achieve a draw ending. But suddenly he made a mistake in this balanced position and gave his opponent the title of FIDE World Champion!

Ding makes a mistake in game 14 and retires…

Gukesh can’t believe it. He is the new world champion! (Photos Maria Emelianova)

I even remember something similar happening in 2010, when Topalov lost the final game of the 2010 FIDE World Championship (also with the white pieces!) to Anand in a more or less even position!

Watch the reaction of players and online viewers.

There are numerous video streams on YouTube that show and discuss the final.