Gukesh Reflects on His Journey: “I’m Far from My Best” Despite World Title Triumph
Gukesh’s Journey: From World Champion to Resilience
Chennai, India – Despite a recent surge in happiness, world chess champion D Gukesh admits he is still grappling with his form since making history as the youngest world chess champion at just 18. The Indian Grandmaster, who triumphed over Ding Liren in a gripping World Chess Championship match in Singapore in December 2024, has faced a challenging road since that monumental victory.
Now 20, Gukesh has yet to secure a major title following his historic win. His recent performance at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament saw him finish last among six competitors, a stark contrast to his earlier achievements. While Gukesh managed only eight points from five matches, his compatriot R Praggnanandhaa celebrated a record title with an impressive 18 points.
A Commitment to the Game
In light of his recent struggles, Gukesh has made the difficult decision to reduce his tournament schedule for 2026. However, with the defense of his world title against Javokhir Sindarov looming, he remains optimistic and motivated. In a candid interview, Gukesh expressed his unwavering love for chess, stating, “I’m very happy with where I am compared to a couple of months ago, but I’m still very far from my best form.”
He acknowledged the frustration of playing below his potential but emphasized that his passion for the game keeps him going. “If you’ve spent so many years doing something and you’re doing it badly, if there’s no love for the game, then there’s no point in continuing,” he said. “The fact that I’m trying this hard means there’s something deeper behind it all.”
The Road Ahead
Gukesh’s journey has not been without its challenges, but his resilience and determination have always shone through. As he prepares for the upcoming title defense, fans and chess enthusiasts alike are hopeful that the young champion will reclaim his peak form. With many years ahead in his career, Gukesh’s fighting spirit promises an exciting future for Indian chess.
As the chess world watches closely, one thing is clear: D Gukesh is not ready to give up, and his love for the game remains as strong as ever.