Magnus Carlsen lauds Gukesh but rules out World Championship showdown, says “not part of this circus anymore”
Teen Beats Champion To Win Coveted Trophy
Posted: December 13, 2024, at 2:58 PM IST, New Delhi - 3-Minute Read
Carlsen mentioned he was somewhat taken aback by the way the match progressed, as many of the games resulted in ties. | Image Source: The Hindu/DEBASISH BHADURI
Carlsen expressed that he was somewhat taken aback by the way the match developed, noting that many of the games resulted in ties. | Photo Credit: The Hindu/DEBASISH BHADURI
World number one Magnus Carlsen praised D Gukesh for seizing his opportunities to become the youngest world chess champion. However, he dismissed the idea of a title match with the young Indian player, which Gukesh had expressed interest in.
The 18-year-old triumphed over the reigning champion Ding Liren in the last round of the match on Thursday, making him only the second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to win this prestigious trophy.
"It’s a remarkable accomplishment by Gukesh. He started off in a tough spot in the FIDE circuit, but he won the tournament in Chennai when it really mattered, and then he delivered an outstanding performance in the Candidates tournament," Carlsen said during a well-known recap stream while breaking down the match.
Carlsen expressed mild surprise at the way the match progressed, noting that many of the games finished in a stalemate.
"This came as a bit of a surprise - many of us believed Gukesh had the upper hand going into the match, but the game never gained momentum. Gukesh was managing to maintain the position well, and then, out of nowhere, it ended." Carlsen remarked.
"This is definitely a positive aspect for him; he’s held the title for two years now, and winning this championship is highly inspiring. There's a strong possibility he’ll have a successful streak from here on, potentially placing him as the second-best player and possibly even reaching the top spot in the near future," he remarked.
CHECK OUT: World Chess Championship 2024: Complete list of winners following D. Gukesh's victory over Ding Liren in the finals.
During the post-event press conference, Gukesh expressed his eagerness to compete against Carlsen in the future. Meanwhile, the Norwegian prodigy chose not to defend his title in 2023, following his victory in the world championship back in 2013.
"Just because I won the World Chess Championship doesn't mean I'm the best player; that's clearly Magnus Carlsen. My goal is to reach the level he has attained," Gukesh stated.
"Competing against Magnus in the world championship would be incredible; it would be the ultimate test in chess. The decision is in Magnus's hands, but I would be eager to measure my skills against the top player globally." However, Carlsen dismissed that idea.
"I’m no longer involved in this circus," Carlsen mentioned, speaking broadly about the championship bouts.
Carlsen also commended Gukesh's team, noting that they performed well.
Carlsen remarked that it's increasingly challenging to play popular openings since every primary line has been thoroughly examined, prompting some players, including Gukesh, to explore alternative options.
"I've mostly played it safe with the white pieces, making an effort to maintain control and avoid letting the situation become chaotic," he said.
The top player in the world for the past ten years expressed his disappointment with Liren's decisions during the final match.
“There were numerous opportunities where Ding could have taken a different approach, but Gukesh truly capitalized on his chances,” he stated.
"This is a significant milestone for India, reflecting the extensive efforts being made. We're not finished yet."
"There are plenty more success stories ahead. Seeing what this meant to Gukesh was truly touching; it was a genuinely beautiful moment," Carlsen reflected.
