Gukesh’s Coach Defends World Champion Amid Criticism from Chess Legends
Gukesh’s Coach Defends World Champion Amid Criticism from Chess Legends
May 30, 2026 – In a passionate defense of his star pupil, Grzegorz Gajewski, coach of 20-year-old chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju, has spoken out against the wave of criticism directed at the young World Champion. Since claiming the title in 2024, Gukesh has faced scrutiny from chess legends like Garry Kasparov, Magnus Carlsen, and Ian Nepomniachtchi, particularly following a recent dip in form.
Gukesh, who made history as the youngest World Champion at 18 by defeating Ding Liren, has struggled in recent tournaments, raising eyebrows among the chess elite. However, Gajewski argues that much of the backlash stems from frustration rather than objective analysis.
“Garry Kasparov, Magnus Carlsen, Anatoly Karpov, and others are all great players with significant egos,” Gajewski told the Hindustan Times. “Gukesh is a young kid who has, in a way, outperformed all of them. I don’t claim he’s better, but he achieved something they never did. I understand Garry must be upset that his record was broken. The game is evolving.”
Gajewski Takes Aim at Kasparov and Nepomniachtchi
Gajewski’s comments come in response to critiques from some of the game’s most revered figures. He pointed out that while Gukesh has quickly ascended to the top, players like Nepomniachtchi have faced years of near misses in their quest for the title. “I feel for Nepo. He was so close to becoming World Champion and has worked tirelessly for years. Then these kids come and take it,” Gajewski remarked.
He highlighted the rapid rise of Gukesh and his peers, noting, “The first time Gukesh played in the Candidates, he won it right away. Then he became World Champion, beating Ding, who Nepo couldn’t overcome. Now we see Sindarov, who crushes the Candidates like it’s a piece of cake. I understand their frustration, but they must come to terms with reality.”
Gukesh’s Upcoming Challenges
As Gukesh prepares to defend his title against the 2026 Candidates winner, Javokhir Sindarov, later this year, his recent performance has raised concerns. Currently competing in the Norway Chess 2026, Gukesh finds himself struggling at the bottom of the standings after four rounds.
Despite the criticism, Gajewski remains optimistic about Gukesh’s potential to bounce back. “Every champion faces challenges. It’s part of the journey,” he stated. “What matters is how you respond to adversity.”
As the chess world watches closely, the young champion and his coach are determined to prove that the future of chess is bright, even amid the shadows of its legends.