Viswanathan Anand Retains World Chess Title

The tile clash went to the 12th and final game, with both players on equal points. Viswanathan Anand, playing with blacks went on to win the game and clinch the title 6.5:5.5. Thus, he succeeded in retaining his crown of the World Chess Championship. Anand's feat has proved that he is undoubtedly an all time great.

At the start Anand was ahead, and led till midway, but Topalov came back strongly winning a game. The 11th game was nail-biting, and at the end of it, both players were locked on 5.5 points. This set up an exciting 12th decisive game.

Veselin Topalov had an advantage with the white pieces, and experts all over the world predicted that at worst Topalov would draw the game with Viswanathan Anand, and they would head into a tie breaker. Anand is considered to be the most aggressive player in the world, and it showed. Topalov wanted to win this game at any cost and avoid a tie breaker, as Anand has a reputation of being the best in the rapid chess format. This led Topalov to commit blunders along the way, and even though at times it seemed Anand had let his opponent back in the game, he had his game planned and went on to win. Topalov finally gave in on the 57th move.

Anand went on to say, "Topalov is one of the grittiest opponents. Watching Lord of the Rings helped me relax."

Viswanathan Anand became Grandmaster in 1987-88, and is now a 4-time world champion, He also has the distinction of 3 consecutive world titles. He first won the world championships in 2000 when it was held on a knockout basis. After that he has been the undisputed champion since 1997. He has also held a peak rating of 2803.

Well done Vishy!