D Gukesh’s Sensational Performance at 2025 Tata Steel Chess Masters

D Gukesh’s performance at the ongoing 2025 Tata Steel Chess Masters has been nothing short of sensational! The defending champion has been completely dominant in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, and has managed to silence some of his outspoken critics, including Magnus Carlsen.

Ever since his victory against Ding Liren at the World Championship in Singapore last month, Gukesh has been on the receiving end of disrespectful remarks from Carlsen. However, the tables seem to have turned as Carlsen has toned down his statements, possibly due to Gukesh being part of his Freestyle Chess Players’ Club.

Currently, the 18-year-old prodigy holds the sole lead with an impressive score of 7.6/10, ahead of Nodirbek Abdusattorov who is half a point behind in second place.

After securing his second consecutive win against GM Max Warmerdam, Gukesh was asked about Carlsen’s comment that he is a “very optimistic player and doesn’t bluff.” In response, Gukesh humorously stated, “Optimistic for sure, but I also bluff. It also depends on the position, opponent and stuff. It is not like I never do, but also I am not a huge bluffer I think.”

In the standings, R Praggnanandhaa is also in contention, trailing just a point behind the leader. On the other hand, Fabiano Caruana, the pre-tournament favorite, saw his winning chances diminish as Pentala Harikrishna managed to escape in a rook endgame.

As the tournament progresses, Gukesh remains the frontrunner, followed closely by Abdusattorov and Praggnanandhaa. With exciting matchups and unexpected outcomes, the Tata Steel Chess Masters continues to captivate chess enthusiasts worldwide.