Ding was declared the world chess champion after defeating Nepo in a tiebreak

The Chinese Ding Liren was declared the world chess champion after defeating the Russian Ian Nepomniachtchi in the last game of the quick playoff, thus succeeding the Norwegian Magnus Carlsen, the winner of the previous five years, in the history of the title holder.

After a draw after 14 games (7-7), the title was decided on a tiebreak day, with four quick games of 25 minutes plus 10 seconds of increments per move.

After three draws in the tie-break, Ding emerged victorious in the fourth and final game for the title. In a tense and equal position, with only a minute left, Ding decided to play for victory. And in a heart-stopping finish, with both players under immense pressure, the Chinese grandmaster emerged victorious after 68 moves.

Against Nepomniachtchi who led three times in the early part of the game, Ding Liren showed incredible skill and stamina to come out victorious in the tiebreak. On the contrary, the Russian’s nerves and luck gave way and he conceded his second defeat in his quest for the world chess crown.

A historic success for Dingo, who would not have even participated in the match if Magnus Carlsen had not decided to give up the crown.

The Norwegian congratulated Ding in his own way on social networks: “Self-sinking for immortality. Congratulations Ding!!!”

“I’m quite relieved. The moment when Ian left the game was very emotional. I couldn’t control my mood and feelings. I know myself: I will cry and cry…,” said an emotional Ding Liren in his first statements after sealing the title.

It is the first time in history that a Chinese player has been declared world champion in the Open category. China now holds the world title in both the men’s and women’s categories. The two competitors will share a prize of two million euros, of which 60% will go to the new world champion.