D Gukesh Accepts Criticism After Disappointing Run Ahead of Norway Chess

Reigning World Champion D Gukesh has made a rare and candid admission ahead of the prestigious Norway Chess tournament, acknowledging that his recent performances have been “way below expectations” as pressure mounts before his highly anticipated title defence against Uzbek prodigy Javokhir Sindarov later this year.

Speaking in Oslo before his opening-round clash against German Grandmaster Vincent Keymer , the 19-year-old Indian admitted that criticism from former chess greats was justified given his inconsistent form in recent months. Gukesh said he does not pay much attention to outside commentary but accepted that critics “have the right to say what they feel” while he focuses on improving his game.

The remarks come during a difficult phase for the youngest undisputed world champion in chess history. Since winning the World Championship crown in 2024, Gukesh has struggled to replicate the consistency that defined his title-winning campaign. This year, he finished 10th at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament , followed by a ninth-place finish at the Prague International Chess Festival and sixth place at the Superbet Rapid & Blitz Poland event on the Grand Chess Tour.

His performances have sparked debate within elite chess circles, with former World Championship challenger Ian Nepomniachtchi recently questioning the Indian star’s consistency against top opposition. However, several leading players continue to back Gukesh, citing the composure and resilience that helped him become world champion at such a young age.

The spotlight on Gukesh has intensified further because of his upcoming clash against Sindarov, who secured the challenger’s spot after winning the Candidates Tournament 2026 . The contest is already being viewed as one of the youngest World Championship matchups in modern chess history.

Gukesh also revealed that he plans to play only a limited number of tournaments before defending his crown, with Norway Chess and the Chess Olympiad currently confirmed on his schedule. The decision is widely seen as an attempt to reduce burnout and sharpen his preparation ahead of the title defence.

Reflecting on last year’s viral moment when Magnus Carlsen slammed the table in frustration after losing to him at Norway Chess, Gukesh said emotional reactions help attract wider audiences to chess, a sport where elite players rarely display visible emotions publicly.