Anand To Carlsen, Timeless Chess Battles From World Championship

The 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship is currently underway in Singapore where 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh is challenging the reigning world champion, Ding Liren of China. Over the years, the championship has witnessed some iconic battles where players from across the globe have showcased their incredible genius.  

Let's take a look at some of the most famous World Chess Championship games, including key moments with Indian grandmasters.

New Orleans 1886: Wilhelm Steinitz vs Johannes Zukertort (Game 19)

In the inaugural world championship match, Steinitz's positional style outclassed Zukertort's aggressive play – the first time chess was played scientifically at the highest level.

New York 1894: Emanuel Lasker vs Wilhelm Steinitz (Game 7)

Lasker punished Steinitz for overaggression, showcasing his tactical genius and setting the stage for his record 27-year reign as world champion.

New York 1907: Emanuel Lasker vs Frank Marshall (Game 1)

Lasker neutralised Marshall's sharp offensive with calm precision, ending the first game of a match where Marshall failed to register even a single win.

Havana 1921: José Raúl Capablanca vs Emanuel Lasker (Game 10)

Capablanca's mastery in the middlegame and endgame dominated Lasker.

Buenos Aires 1927: Alexander Alekhine vs José Raúl Capablanca (Game 11)

Alekhine's relentless pressure and superior endgame tactics dethroned the seemingly invincible Capablanca.

London 2000: Vladimir Kramnik vs Garry Kasparov (Game 2)

Kramnik made a historic move by defeating Garry Kasparov in Game 2. Kramnik, playing as white, surprised Kasparov with a new idea in the Grunfeld Defence. This game ended Kasparov's 15-year reign as World Champion, and Kramnik went on to win the match 8 and a half-6 and a half.

Brissago 2004: Vladimir Kramnik vs Peter Leko (Game 14)

In 2004, Kramnik faced Peter Leko in a tense, must-win Game 14 to retain his title. Kramnik used the Caro-Kann Defence to break through Leko's defences with a smart pawn sacrifice. Leko eventually resigned, and Kramnik drew the match 7-7, successfully holding onto his championship.

Bonn 2008: Viswanathan Anand vs Vladimir Kramnik (Game 5)

In the 2008 World Championship, India's Viswanathan Anand faced Vladimir Kramnik. Anand's deep preparation in Game 5 saw him neutralise Kramnik's opening and force a blunder. With a 3 and a half-1 and a half lead, Anand secured his title defence.

New York 2016: Magnus Carlsen vs Sergey Karjakin (Game 10)

Magnus Carlsen, the reigning champion, faced Sergey Karjakin in 2016. After losing a game, Carlsen managed to level the score in Game 10 with a brilliant Ruy Lopez opening. Carlsen's precise endgame play ensured his victory, and he went on to win in a rapid tiebreaker, defending his title.

Dubai 2021: Magnus Carlsen vs Ian Nepomniachtchi (Game 6)

In the 2021 World Chess Championship, Carlsen faced Ian Nepomniachtchi in one of the longest games in history. Game 6 lasted 136 moves and saw both players under extreme pressure. Carlsen, however, outlasted Nepomniachtchi and won, marking the longest game in World Championship history.

Astana 2023: Ian Nepomniachtchi vs Ding Liren (Game 12)

In 2023, Ding Liren faced Ian Nepomniachtchi in a dramatic World Championship match. Ding, in a must-win situation, played a brilliant defensive game and capitalised on Nepomniachtchi's mistakes. This victory led Ding to the tiebreaks, where he ultimately won the title, becoming the first Chinese World Chess Champion.