Sindarov Lauds Gukesh as a Top Chess Contender Before World Championship
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New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) Recently crowned FIDE Candidates 2026 champion, Javokhir Sindarov, has expressed high admiration for current world champion D Gukesh as both chess prodigies prepare for their eagerly awaited World Chess Championship encounter later this year.
Sindarov maintained an unbeaten streak throughout the tournament, decisively clinching the Candidates title with an impressive score of 9.5 points by Round 13, concluding the contest with a game still to play.
With the championship match slated for November-December, the anticipation is building around the face-off between these two young talents of the chess world.
“He’s the youngest champion in history and, undoubtedly, one of the top players globally. His skills are exceptional, and I believe it will be an exhilarating match. I’m looking forward to it and wish him the best of luck,” Sindarov shared with ChessBase India.
Despite Sindarov entering the match with impressive momentum, Gukesh, who made history as the youngest world champion, remains a tough adversary, even after a quieter period following his victory over Ding Liren in 2024.
Reflecting on his own journey at the Candidates, Sindarov credited his success to his disciplined mindset and focused preparation, stating, “During this tournament, my primary focus was on my chess practice, and I limited my exposure to social media.”
The 20-year-old displayed remarkable consistency and maturity, skillfully handling high-pressure moments throughout the tournament.
When discussing his preference for the location of the upcoming World Championship match, Sindarov humorously expressed a wish for warmer weather.
“If the event occurs in December, I would prefer a warm destination like Cyprus. I’d rather not play the World Chess Championship in cold conditions,” Sindarov remarked during the press briefing.