It does not matter if Ding Liren is struggling for form or is at his best, D Gukesh knows he needs to be the “best version of himself “ in every game against the Chinese during the World Chess Championship clash, starting Monday.

While Gukesh has been in fine touch, Liren has struggled in the lead-up to the prestigious event. “For me, it’s pretty clear who I’m going to face. I’m going to face Ding Liren, who has been one of the best players in the world for more than a decade,” said Gukesh, who will play with whites in the opening game, said at the pre-tournament press conference.