Well, it may be harsh, but he deserved it. Qualifying to the final with only rapid matches would definitely mean a not good future in Candidates.
Russian strategy is better. Play for a win as white and draw as black.
What was Rapport thinking during his match with Liren? (World Cup)
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I agree. poor decision by Rapport, Ding is very dangerous with the White Pieces. Not gonna complain, Im rooting for Ding
MSC157 wrote:
Well, it may be harsh, but he deserved it. Qualifying to the final with only rapid matches would definitely mean a not good future in Candidates.
Russian strategy is better. Play for a win as white and draw as black.
But if you do that, can't I just counter your strategy by playing for a draw with white and a win with black?
macer75 wrote:
MSC157 wrote:
Well, it may be harsh, but he deserved it. Qualifying to the final with only rapid matches would definitely mean a not good future in Candidates.
Russian strategy is better. Play for a win as white and draw as black.
But if you do that, can't I just counter your strategy by playing for a draw with white and a win with black?
I'm sure I'd be more successful (or GMs would be) with W1 than B1 
This is the ridiculous game he played with white:
After throwing away his opportunity with the White pieces, he suffered as Black against Liren and lost, and in turn was eliminated from the tournament. WTF was he thinking? Yes these tournaments are grueling, but he's only 21 years old! Fatigue is a poor excuse when you are young and this is your CAREER. I don't even agree with playing for a draw as black, but at least I understand the strategy. Playing for a draw as white in a 2-game match format? Very odd decision. This was just a very anti-climactic exit after a good tournament for him.