Judit Polgar Questions D Gukesh’s World Chess Title Defense Amid Struggles
Judit Polgar Questions D Gukesh’s Title Defense Ahead of World Chess Championship
In a candid interview, chess legend Judit Polgar has raised concerns about Indian grandmaster D Gukesh’s ability to retain his world chess title later this year. The 19-year-old prodigy, who made headlines by becoming the youngest world champion at just 18, is currently grappling with the weight of expectations following a series of disappointing performances.
Gukesh’s reign began in December 2024 when he triumphed over Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren. However, since that historic victory, he has struggled to secure any major titles, most recently finishing with only one win at the Prague Chess Masters 2026. In a moment of vulnerability, Gukesh expressed a desire for a break from the relentless spotlight, acknowledging the pressure that comes with being a world champion.
Polgar, the only woman to have ever ranked in the world’s top 10, shared her insights on Gukesh’s current form and future prospects. “There is a very, very big question mark whether Gukesh can stay the world champion at the end of this year,” she stated. While she remains optimistic about his long-term potential, she expressed uncertainty about his immediate future in the championship.
The upcoming FIDE Candidates Tournament in April 2026 will determine Gukesh’s challenger for the title. Polgar believes that the winner of this tournament will likely emerge as the next world champion. She emphasized that Gukesh’s recent performances indicate a shift in his approach to the game. “He is taking fewer risks compared to when he was not a world champion,” she noted, highlighting a decline in the mental resilience that once defined his play.
Reflecting on Gukesh’s championship victory, Polgar pointed out that his success was not solely due to superior chess skills but also his remarkable mental fortitude. “He was ready to make mistakes and bounce back from them,” she explained, likening his strategic mindset to a jaguar hunting its prey. “He was prepared to capitalize on Ding’s errors, which ultimately led to his victory.”
To regain his competitive edge, Polgar suggests that Gukesh focus on enhancing his mental conditioning and embrace a more daring style of play. “He has to not only work on his chess but also spend a lot of time on his psychological mental preparation,” she advised. “How not to be afraid of making mistakes and play it out.”
As the chess world eagerly anticipates the upcoming championship, all eyes will be on Gukesh to see if he can rise to the occasion and prove his doubters wrong. The journey ahead will be crucial not only for his title defense but also for shaping his legacy in the world of chess.