Walking a tightrope

Ding recovered from a tough loss after a much-needed rest day | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Gukesh walked in like a boss after his last win | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Everyone was ready for a thrilling performance | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Ding decided to surprise Gukesh... | Photo: Maria Emelianova

… with the unexpected Nf3 in the opening! | Photo: Eng Chin An

Not a new line for Gukesh… but a little bit of a surprise | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Ding’s approach for the game: ‘Surprise… but don’t risk it all’ | Photo: Eng Chin An

Everyone deserves surprises… Gukesh played Ne5! | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Ding: I can play f4 to force your knight away
Gukesh: Play f4, it will only trap you | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Instead of f4, Ding goes with a4

Ding decides: It's time to play cool and settle for a draw. | Photo: Maria Emelianova
Meanwhile, Anish didn’t just predict the draw; he published it!
twitter.com/i/status/1862457661209399464

Just then, Gukesh plays a wild risky move, f5… a potential blunder, both for Gukesh and Anish!
twitter.com/i/status/1862467873953767545

The position neutralized and game ended in a draw… saving everyone from embarrassment | Photo: Eng Chin An

Ding: It was a very balanced, good played game. | Photo: Eng Chin An

Gukesh: I kind of believe more in Fischer’s quote: 'I believe in good moves.' I am just trying to make good moves. | Photo: Eng Chin An
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