D Gukesh Acknowledges Fair Criticism from Chess Legends Amid Performance Struggles

D Gukesh Faces Criticism from Chess Legends Amid Performance Struggles

Oslo, Norway — Reigning world chess champion D Gukesh has acknowledged the validity of criticism directed at him by chess legends, including Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov, following a significant decline in his performance over the past year. As he approaches his 20th birthday, Gukesh finds himself grappling with the weight of expectations that come with his title.

In 2024, Gukesh made headlines as the youngest player to win the FIDE Candidates Tournament and the World Championship, alongside securing individual gold on Board 1 at the Olympiad. However, his recent form has been a stark contrast to his earlier successes. The Chennai-born prodigy has faced a series of setbacks, including three consecutive defeats at the Grand Swiss and an early exit in the third round of the World Cup held on home soil.

“I have not been performing well in the last 18 months,” Gukesh admitted during a press conference ahead of the Norway Chess tournament. “My performance is way below expectations. They have the right to say what they feel, and I have the right to do my job as best as I can.”

The criticism from chess greats has intensified as Gukesh’s struggles continued at major events, including the World Rapid and Blitz Championships, the Sinquefield Cup, and Tata Steel Chess. The scrutiny has led to questions about his credentials as a world champion, a sentiment echoed by current world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen.

In response to the mounting pressure, Gukesh has decided to lighten his competitive schedule as he prepares for his title defense against Javokhir Sindarov, who recently dominated the Candidates Tournament. While he opted out of this year’s Grand Chess Tour, Gukesh is set to participate as a wildcard in the Super Rapid and Blitz Poland and will make a similar appearance in Zagreb later this summer.

As he gears up for the Norway Chess tournament, which has relocated to Oslo this year, Gukesh is eager to reclaim his form and hopes to replicate last year’s dramatic victory over Carlsen at the same event.

With the chess world watching closely, Gukesh’s journey serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by young champions and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the game of chess.

First Published: May 25, 2026, 17:16 IST