PIECES FALLING INTO PLACE

World champ Ding is reviewing games as excitement builds for challenger Gukesh

- Melvyn Teoh

Nineteen months ago, Ding Liren dissolved in tears after beating Candidates Tournament winner Ian Nepomniachtchi to become China's first men's world chess champion.

This time, the world No. 23 hopes to be smiling at the end of a marathon battle at the Fide World Championship in Singapore.

The clash between chess titans Ding and Indian challenger Gukesh Dommaraju begins at Resorts World Sentosa on Nov 25, with the best-of-14 series to end on Dec 13.

Speaking at the press conference at the Capitol Theatre on Nov 23, Ding said: "During my first world championship match, I was very nervous, but this time I feel peace, have lots of energy and I hope we can produce the same, exciting match as the last time."

The 2023 edition delivered some thrillers on the board for fans, with Ding thrice coming from behind to claim victory against his Russian opponent.

When asked about his strategy this time, Ding said: "I think everybody will choose to (start by) winning first, but it's the one who wins last, who smiles the biggest."

The 32-year-old has not had reason to smile in recent times, after his struggles with mental health issues and a poor run of form.