Gukesh will not feel pressure at the World title match, says Pia Cramling

At the Chennai Chess Olympiad in 2022, the spotlight shone brightly on two exceptional players – D. Gukesh and Pia Cramling. Gukesh, a 16-year-old prodigy, dazzled spectators with eight consecutive wins on the top board for India-2, ultimately clinching the individual gold medal in the open section. Meanwhile, Cramling, a seasoned veteran at 59, showcased her enduring talent by securing the gold on the top board in the women’s event.

Cramling, a former World No. 1 and trailblazer for women in chess, expressed her delight at the growing recognition of women’s chess. She is set to compete in the Norway Chess tournament, where equal prize money for both men and women reflects a positive shift in the chess world. Cramling emphasized the importance of gender equality in chess and the impact it can have on inspiring female players.

Despite her age, Cramling’s passion for the game remains unwavering. Ranked 26th in the world, she continues to find joy and fulfillment in playing chess. Her recent success at the Chennai Olympiad, where she triumphed alongside her daughter and husband, highlighted her enduring skill and competitive spirit.

As Gukesh prepares to challenge Ding Liren for the World Championship later this year, Cramling believes the pressure will be on the defending champion. Reflecting on her own encounter with Gukesh in the French League, she commended his progress and predicted a formidable showdown in the upcoming title match.

With their remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to chess, both Gukesh and Cramling serve as inspirations to players of all ages and backgrounds.