Viswanathan Anand Offers Crucial Advice to D. Gukesh Amidst Challenging Times
Viswanathan Anand Offers Crucial Advice to D. Gukesh Amidst Struggles
April 22, 2026 – In a challenging phase of his career, reigning world chess champion Dommaraju Gukesh is seeking to regain his footing after a notable dip in form. The young Indian prodigy, who made history in 2024 by becoming the youngest undisputed world chess champion, has faced difficulties in recent tournaments, including a disappointing performance at the Prague Masters.
Following a mixed season in 2025, where Gukesh celebrated his monumental world title win but struggled in other major events, he has decided to step back from a packed tournament schedule to focus on training and preparation. His recent results have raised concerns, especially after finishing joint-bottom at the Prague Masters, leading to a significant loss of rating points.
As Gukesh gears up for a crucial world championship match against Javokhir Sindarov later this year, he finds himself under immense pressure to return to his best form. In this context, Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand has stepped in with timely advice.
In a candid interview with Lichess, Anand emphasized that criticism and pressure are inherent to the life of a world champion. He offered Gukesh a reality check regarding the challenges that come with holding the prestigious title. “Focus on what you can do,” Anand advised. “Ignore the noise. If it bothers you, accept that it’s normal. Nobody promised you perfect happiness as a champion.”
Anand reflected on his own experiences, suggesting that the true value of the world championship is often realized only after it is lost. “You’ll think, did I really complain about these things? Because my god, it would be nice to have it back,” he noted.
He further acknowledged that while criticism from fans and critics can be harsh, it is often a reflection of expectations that come with the title. “Lock yourself in a room and ignore it, but focus on doing a good job at some tournament. If it’s not this one, then the next one,” he advised, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience.
As Gukesh prepares for the upcoming championship, Anand’s words serve as a reminder that even the best can face setbacks, and the path to greatness is often fraught with challenges. With the right mindset and dedication, Gukesh has the potential to rise once again and solidify his place in chess history.