The intense battle at the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament has concluded with Gukesh D and Tan Zhongyi emerging as the Challengers for the World Chess Championship. Gukesh, a 17-year-old prodigy from India, has etched his name in history as the youngest-ever World Chess Championship Challenger. He is set to face off against World Champion Ding Liren later this year, while Tan Zhongyi will compete against her compatriot Ju Wenjun in the Women’s Championship matchup.
The tournament’s final rounds were packed with suspense and drama, with four players contending for the top spot. Gukesh faced off against Hikaru Nakamura in a must-not-lose situation and displayed remarkable composure, earning praise from none other than Magnus Carlsen himself for his tactical prowess. Ultimately, Gukesh secured the draw he needed to clinch joint first place.
Meanwhile, the fate of the tournament hung in the balance as Fabiano Caruana and Ian Nepomniachtchi engaged in a nerve-wracking battle. Caruana, with a winning position in hand, faltered, allowing Nepomniachtchi to salvage a draw. Despite several twists and turns, neither player could seize victory, leading to Gukesh’s clear triumph in the tournament.
Reflecting on his victory, Gukesh expressed relief and joy, acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster of the final rounds. The post-tournament standings saw Hikaru Nakamura clinching second place, followed by Ian Nepomniachtchi and Fabiano Caruana.
In the Women’s Candidates Tournament, Tan Zhongyi secured her victory with a solid performance against Anna Muzychuk, securing the draw she needed to claim the Challenger title. Lei Tingjie, who entered the final round as the runner-up, faced disappointment as she succumbed to a critical mistake against Humpy Koneru, ultimately finishing third in the standings.
The final standings after Round 14 showcased Gukesh and Tan as the deserving winners of their respective categories, with Nakamura and Nepomniachtchi closely trailing behind in the Open section, and Koneru and Lei securing their positions in the Women’s category.
The 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament will be remembered for its thrilling battles and remarkable displays of skill, setting the stage for an exciting World Chess Championship showdown later this year.
