Karjakin had taken charge of the competition by taking advantage of Magnus Carlsen’s risky strategy in the eighth match to earn a crucial victory against the Norwegian.

It broke a run of seven consecutive draws and left the defending champion furious, to the extent he did not attend the post-game press conference and received a fine of 10 per cent of his prize money.

Karjakin had white as he looked to maintain his narrow lead, with Carlsen adopting an aggressive strategy in a bid to draw level.

Despite Carlsen’s best efforts to disrupt his rivals’ strategy, it offered Karjakin opportunities to earn a second straight win.

Errors from both players prevented either from claiming a victory, although Karjakin was seen to have had the advantage in the game.

After over six hours of play, both players agreed to end the game as a draw.

"There were many difficult moments, but I was happy to survive," admitted Carlsen. 

Karjakin now leads the 12-game series five points to four with three more games set to be contested at South Street Seaport in New York City.

The 10th game of the Championship is due to take place tomorrow.