Magnus Carlsen at Peace as Indian Teens Challenge for Chess World No 1 Spot

Magnus Carlsen, the five-time world chess champion, is at peace as a clutch of prodigious Indian teens are hot on his heels on the ratings board. Carlsen even sees them overtaking him in a couple of years, but he remains calm and collected.

One of these talented teens is 18-year-old D Gukesh, who is set to face China’s Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship later this month. Carlsen, who is currently in Kolkata for the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, expressed his support for Gukesh, calling him the clear favorite for the upcoming event.

Despite his confidence in Gukesh, Carlsen acknowledged the pressure that comes with such a high-stakes competition. He warned that the young grandmaster will feel the weight of expectations from over a billion people rooting for him to win.

Gukesh made history earlier this year by becoming the youngest player ever to win the Fide Candidates tournament, surpassing the record set by former world champion Garry Kasparov. His rapid rise in the world of chess has caught the attention of players like Carlsen, who admitted underestimating Gukesh’s abilities in the past.

While Gukesh may be the favorite in the upcoming World Championship clash, Carlsen cautioned that anything can happen in chess. He pointed out some vulnerabilities in Gukesh’s recent performances, suggesting that his opponent, Ding Liren, may have a chance to capitalize on them.

Despite his own achievements in the world of chess, Carlsen remains humble and open to the idea of facing off against Gukesh in a match. He expressed his enjoyment in playing against the young talent, emphasizing that while he may still be the favorite, Gukesh would certainly have a chance to win.

As the chess world eagerly anticipates the showdown between Gukesh and Ding Liren, Carlsen’s words of support and caution add an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming championship match.