Gukesh punches air in rare display of emotion after big win over Sindarov ahead of World Championship - WATCH

Reigning world champion Dommaraju Gukesh registered an important win over Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov in their much-awaited clash at the Grand Chess Tour: Super Rapid and Blitz Poland 2026.

The victory came in Round 5 of the Rapid section on Wednesday, where Gukesh defeated Sindarov with black pieces to move up to No. 5 in the overall standings with 5.0 points. Sindarov, who had been in strong form coming into the event, slipped to sixth place with 4.0 points from five matches.

"I guess for both of us, I know also from the previous experience when I played Ding before the match, there's always something going on. It's a nice feeling," Gukesh said after the match.

Watch Gukesh's celebration

What caught everyone’s attention was Gukesh’s celebration after the win. Known for his calm and composed nature, the Indian youngster showed rare emotion as he punched the air in delight after sealing the game.

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The match had generated a lot of buzz even before it began. There were questions around Gukesh’s recent form, while Sindarov had been gaining momentum in the past few months. The Uzbek player recently won the Candidates 2026 tournament, earning the right to challenge Gukesh in the upcoming World Championship match later this year.

This win will be a big confidence boost for Gukesh ahead of that crucial showdown. With the world title on the line in the coming months, the Indian star would be happy to get back to winning ways at the right time.