Javokhir Sindarov bestowed with Uzbekistan’s Order of Labor Glory medal following historic Candidates triumph

Uzbekistan Grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov has been bestowed with the prestigious Order of Labor Glory by his country's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev following his victory at the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament. The Uzbek grandmaster made history after becoming the first player from his country to secure a victory in an elite-level tournament.

Upon his arrival from Paphos, Cyprus, Javokhir Sindarov received an extravagant welcome in Tashkent, where he was greeted by family members, close relatives, and the media. Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and representatives of the Uzbekistan Chess Federation also welcomed the 20‑year‑old at Tashkent International Airport.

Sindarov awarded Order of Labor Glory by President of Uzbekistan

20-year-old Javokhir Sindarov was presented with the prestigious Mehnat Shuhrati (Order of Labor Glory) under a decree signed by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on Friday, April 17. At the ceremony, President Mirziyoyev said that Sindarov's success at the prestigious Candidates tournament is a matter of national pride.

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"Of course, no result comes on its own. Behind this lies many years of tireless work, experience accumulated since childhood, a strong will, iron discipline, as well as the school of mentors and the prayers of his family," the Uzbek head of state said, as quoted by Kursiv Media Uzbekistan.

Sindarov made an undefeated run in 2026 Candidates

Javokhir Sindarov displayed incredible resilience and stability throughout the Candidates tournament, finishing the event with six wins in 14 games without conceding a single defeat. He secured victories over elite grandmasters like R Praggnanandhaa, Fabiano Caruana, Wei Yi, Hikaru Nakamura, and Andrey Esipenko.

The 20-year-old's run in the Candidates had one of the finest statistical performances in the tournament's history, making it a rare achievement.

Following a historic victory in the Candidates tournament, Javokhir Sindarov has earned the right to challenge D Gukesh, the reigning world champion, for the world chess title. FIDE is yet to announce the date and venue for the same.