The 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship match between Gukesh D and Ding Liren, held in Singapore, captivated chess enthusiasts worldwide. This highly dramatic 13-game encounter culminated in Gukesh being crowned the youngest undisputed World Champion in chess history. Although seven months have passed since the match concluded, its excitement and significant impact continue to resonate.
In recognition of its success, we are proud to announce that the match has been honored as the Best Sports Event of the Year (Exhibition/Competition) at the upcoming 2025 Singapore Sports Awards!
Reflecting on this achievement, Kevin Goh, CEO of the Singapore Chess Federation, shared his thoughts.
Jointly organized by the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) and Sport Singapore, the Singapore Sports Awards represent the nation`s highest recognition for excellence in sports. The 2025 edition celebrated standout performances and events from 2024, with FIDE`s flagship event being named the premier event in its category.
The award acknowledges not only the exceptional level of play exhibited by the competitors but also the world-class organization, media production, and community engagement efforts that transformed the match into a truly global spectacle. With support from Google and hosted at Resorts World Sentosa, the event successfully demonstrated Singapore`s capability as a leading venue for major international sporting events.
Adding further distinction, Singaporean photographer Chin An Eng was awarded Sports Photo of the Year for a powerful image taken during the championship match. The photograph brilliantly captures the immense intensity of the contest, showing both players in mirrored postures with their heads in their hands, flags visible, embodying the deep mental tension of the game.
Gukesh Dommaraju and Ding Liren | Photo: Chin An Eng
FIDE extends its sincere appreciation to the Singapore Chess Federation, the local organizing committee, sponsors, partners, dedicated volunteers, and the passionate fans whose collective efforts were instrumental in making this event a resounding success. This significant recognition is a powerful testament to the increasing global stature of chess.
Warmest congratulations to everyone involved in this remarkable achievement!
Elton Marrow