Former world champion Ding Liren has finally opened up after being dropped from the FIDE ratings list and his response is not what many expected.
Despite no longer being listed among active rated players, Ding appears completely at ease with his current situation.
Why Ding Liren Was Removed from FIDE Ratings
Because Ding has not participated in enough rated tournaments and has been inactive for a period of time, he was removed from the official rating list per the requirements of FIDE.
To maintain their ranking, players must remain active by participating in competitive tournaments.
But even being dropped from the FIDE Rankings, Ding does not see this phase as an obstacle or setback; rather, it appears as though he appreciates the opportunity for a break.
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Ding Liren dropped out of the FIDE Rankings
In a recent interview, Ding made it clear that he’s not so much affected by the FIDE rankings. He said: “I quite enjoy my current situation. What I mean is, being a player with an inactive rating, who seldom participates in elite invitationals. I’m enjoying this rare moment of leisure.”
It’s a rare take from a former world champion, especially in a sport where rankings often define legacy and relevance.
Ding’s journey over the past two years has been anything but smooth.
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He became the 17th world champion after defeating Ian Nepomniachtchi in the 2023 World Chess Championship. However, his reign didn’t last long.
In 2024, he lost the title to India’s D Gukesh in Singapore. The defeat came after a tough stretch of form, with many questioning his consistency at the highest level.
Despite the criticism, Ding Liren showed resilience during the World Championship clash against Gukesh.
He surprised many by winning the opening game and stayed in contention throughout the match. The title ultimately slipped away in the 14th and final game, where a late endgame blunder sealed his fate.
Ding Liren Advises His Younger Self
Ding Liren also expressed that maybe he is not performing on an elite level, but he does practice chess.
“I keep up playing the occasional game online: it doesn’t require arduous pre-game preparation, just undivided concentration in the moment. The process itself is rewarding.”
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This shift reflects a more relaxed approach, focusing on the joy of the game rather than the pressure of competition.
Ding also shared a rare personal thought when asked what advice he would give his younger self: “I wish my younger self had studied more and persisted in academics a bit longer, not letting it fall to the wayside. That way, later years of life might be richer. People always dwell on the things they didn’t do (or paths they didn’t take).”
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