The chess world is buzzing as the 2024 FIDE World Championship heats up in Singapore. Defending champion Ding Liren holds a narrow lead over 18-year-old challenger Gukesh Dommaraju. Game 3 takes place on Wednesday, November 27, at 4:00 a.m. ET (10:00 CET / 5:00 p.m. local time). This pivotal match will set the tone before the first rest day.
With Ding leading 1.5 to 0.5, the stakes are high for Gukesh, who gets his second turn with the white pieces. Will he equalize, or can Ding extend his advantage?
Match Context: Ding’s Lead, Gukesh’s Challenge
Game 3 arrives with tension mounting. Ding Liren, known for his cool and calculated approach, has showcased his prowess in the first two games. He secured a stunning victory in Game 1 and held Gukesh to a sharp draw in Game 2.
Gukesh, meanwhile, faces a steep climb. The youngest player ever to contest a world championship, he brings incredible talent and determination to the board. Game 3 is crucial for the Indian prodigy, as a win would level the score and restore momentum heading into the break.
This encounter isn’t just a battle of wits; it’s a clash of styles. Ding’s steady, strategic play meets Gukesh’s fearless ambition, making each game unpredictable and captivating.
How to Watch Game 3 Live
Chess enthusiasts can tune in from anywhere to follow the live action. Here’s how:
- Platforms: Catch the game live on Chess.com/TV, Chess24’s Twitch and YouTube channels.
- Commentary: Grandmasters Judit Polgar, Daniel Naroditsky, and John Sargent host the live broadcast, providing expert insights and analysis.
- Streams: Fan favorites like GM Hikaru Nakamura on Kick, GM Anish Giri, and IM Levy Rozman (GothamChess) will stream their perspectives.
Don’t miss post-game analysis and interviews on Chess.com’s playlist. It’s a perfect way to dive deeper into the nuances of each match.
Key Match Details
Here’s what you need to know about the championship:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Singapore |
| Format | 14-game classical match |
| Scoring | First to 7.5 points wins |
| Time Control | 2 hours for 40 moves, 30 minutes thereafter, with 30-second increments from move 41 |
| Prize Fund | $2.5 million; $200,000 for a win, rest split equally |
If the match ends 7-7, a rapid playoff (15+10) will decide the winner.
Game 3 Expectations
The spotlight is firmly on Gukesh as he takes the white pieces. His preparation will be key against Ding’s notoriously solid black defenses. While Ding aims to maintain his lead, Gukesh must find a way to break through and tilt the balance in his favor.
It’s also worth noting the psychological game at play. Ding, with years of experience, appears calm and collected. Gukesh, though younger, has shown immense composure under pressure. Game 3 could test both players’ mental endurance as much as their technical skills.
Where the Match Stands
Here’s how the scoreboard looks after two games:
| Player | Rating | Game 1 | Game 2 | Game 3 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ding Liren | 2728 | 1 | ½ | . | 1.5 |
| Gukesh Dommaraju | 2783 | 0 | ½ | . | 0.5 |
Gukesh has a higher rating on paper, but Ding’s experience has so far proven decisive.
The 2024 FIDE World Championship promises intense drama and high stakes as it progresses. Game 3 could be a turning point in this tightly contested battle between two of the world’s best chess minds.
