The story of the World Championship 2024 through pictures: Game 11

by Rasika Ratnaparkhi - 09/12/2024

After seven consecutive draws, Game 11 of the World Championship match between D Gukesh and Ding Liren finally delivered the third decisive result. Gukesh successfully took Ding out of his preparation from the opening, and despite both players facing severe time pressure, Gukesh held his ground. Ding's blunder was immediately capitalized by Gukesh, forcing Ding to resign. Game 11 will undoubtedly be remembered as a turning point in the match. Check out the article to explore some of the game’s most fascinating moments. | Photo: Eng Chin An

In the blink of an eye

Indian crown arrived at the playing venue

Even though Gukesh could manage to stay calm, his fans could not, as they were overflowing with excitement! | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Ding was also composed and focused, ready to face the storm in Game 11. | Photo: Maria Emelianova

The first move for Gukesh was made by Asia's first grandmaster Eugenio Torre | Photo: Eng Chin An

And former Women's World Champion Hou Yifan made the first move for Ding Liren | Photo: Eng Chin An

After a series of draws, fans wanted some spark on the scoreboard. | Photo: Eng Chin An

Gukesh's opening scrambled Ding out of his preparation. | Photo: Eng Chin An

... as Ding spent 38 minutes on his fifth move: Nf3 | Photo: Eng Chin An

'All this for nothing!' Gukesh's immediate response of a3 made Ding realize his 38-minute analysis had been spent on what he later called ‘nonsense variations'. | Photo: Eng Chin An

Gukesh mirrored extra long think as he spent an hour on the ninth move, but he found the best move g3! | Photo: Maria Emelianova

In his own words, "It was just horrible! I don't know what to do. I was just kicking myself" | Photo: Maria Emelianova

They both were misled by their own calculations | Photo: Maria Emelianova

Regained Confidence - Gukesh took a short break to clear his mind, telling himself: "I have already spoiled the advantage. Now let me just make one move at a time and not make any more mistakes." | Photo: Eng Chin An

Gukesh was in full main-character mode! | Photo: Eng Chin An

The position was equal for both the players.. unlike the time! With only 7.41 minutes left on the clock and 12 moves for an extra 30 minutes... | Photo: Eng Chin An