On Form, Gukesh Favourite To Win Against Ding Liren In World Championship: Praggnanandhaa

On current form, D Gukesh is favourite to win World Chess Championship title against his Chinese opponent, Ding Liren, believes Indian teenage Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa.

World Championship is scheduled to be played from November 25 till December 15 in Singapore.

Gukesh, who at 17 became youngest player to win Candidates Tournament in April, has h a remarkable 2024, leing India to a historic gold medal at 45th Chess Olympi.

In contrast, Liren has struggled this year, failing to secure a single victory in Classical format since January.

"Gukesh is definitely favourite, considering his recent form. But World Championship is a different tournament altoger. I'm sure Gukesh is preparing really well. We'll see how match goes," said Praggnanandhhaa, who is here for Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz Tournament.

19-year-old has been pitted against world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen on opening day of tournament, which will begin with Rapid format on Wednesday.

Carlsen, who has won both Rapid and Blitz formats in previous editions, returns to tournament for second time.

"It would be quite exciting to open with Magnus. I'm hoping to give my best and see what happens," Praggnanandhaa said.

"For sure, everyone is excited to play Magnus. It's also good for tournament. He is best player. It's really exciting for all players." Having played in most editions of tournament in Kolkata, Praggnanandhaa noted that his past experience would be beneficial.

"I've played a lot in Kolkata; except for 2019, I've played in all editions. My past experience has definitely helped me," he ded.

Filipino-American GM Wesley So, also a part of 10-member open field, echoed sentiment, backing Gukesh for upcoming 14-round World Championship.

"I'm looking forward to it. World Championship matches are some of my favourite events to watch in any sport. One of best was 2018 Magnus vs. Fabiano match; I watched till 3 in morning. It was an explosion of ideas. It's going to be interesting," Wesley said.

"I know 99.9 per cent of people are rooting for Gukesh because we're in India, and I'm also rooting for Gukesh. I talked to many GMs, and y think it won't last 14 games. We'll see what happens." World Championship, scheduled from November 20 to December 15, will consist of 14 games, with a time control of 120 minutes for first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for remaining moves, and a 30-second increment starting from move 41.

first player to score 7.5 points will win, and if score is tied after 14 games, a tiebreaker will determine next world champion.