Gukesh urged by chess legend to 'challenge himself' ahead of world title defence against Sindarov : 'He will need it'

Indian chess star Gukesh Dommaraju finds himself on the back-foot as he prepares to defend his world title against Javokhir Sindarov a few months from now. Gukesh's form, after all, has gone downhill over an extended period spanning nearly a year, particularly in major events such as the Fide Grand Swiss and World Cup, the latter taking place on home soil in November.

Sindarov not only had won the World Cup in Goa to qualify for the Candidates, he ended up winning the latter in dominant fashion to challenge Gukesh, who had become the youngest champion in the history of the sport in December 2024, for his title.

Hungarian chess legend Judit Polgar is among those looking forward to the battle of the 20-year-olds, which she believes highlights the fact that the new generation has well and truly taken charge of the sport.

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Polgar looks forward to 'historic' Gukesh vs Sindarov showdown

The former world No 8, at the same time, has cautioned Gukesh in his quest to successfully defend his title and extend his reign as world champion, advising the Chennai resident to "challenge himself" in his preparation for the mega showdown.

"It’s going to be historic for sure because two youngsters, two 20-year-olds are going to be having this huge clash. It was fantastic to follow Gukesh’s performance when he became a world champion. But ever since he’s not sure, seeing his results and play," Polgar, the strongest female chess player of all time, said in a video posted by Fide on X on Friday.

"So I do hope he’s going to be able to prepare and challenge himself and show his very best, because he will need it. Because Sindarov, who just won the Candidates tournament brilliantly and very convincingly. He’s going to be there ready.

"I’m so excited to see who is going to be the next world champion. But one thing is for sure – new generation took over," the 49-year-old added.

Gukesh had enjoyed a red-hot run in 2024, becoming the youngest champion in the history of the Candidates tournament as well as the World Championship besides an individual gold at the Olympiad.

And his sharp decline spanning nearly a year has forced the Indian GM to opt for a lighter schedule ahead of his title defence by opting out of the Grand Chess Tour.