Gukesh vs Sindarov World Championship match will be a test of mind: Vidit

FILE PHOTO: GM Vidit Gujrathi said Gukesh must approach the World Championship match as the Challenger. | Photo Credit: B. VELANKANNI RAJ

Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi believes reigning world champion D Gukesh’s title defence against Uzbek challenger Javokhir Sindarov will be a test of mental strength more than chess ability, with the Indian needing to put behind him a difficult run and rediscover the form that made 2024 an exceptional year.

Gukesh has endured an inconsistent phase since his World Championship triumph, while Sindarov heads into the marquee clash in excellent form. Vidit, however, said a dip in results does not necessarily indicate a decline in a player’s ability.

“In chess, performances, if you are not Magnus Carlsen, come in stages. For example, 2024 was an exceptional year for Gukesh. Every tournament, he had the Midas touch. Whatever he played, he was winning,” Vidit told PTI.

He said form among elite players is influenced by several factors beyond their chess strength.

“Their strength is very high. A lot of things affect form — mindset, physical condition and pressure. Sport is about whether you can bring your best on that day.” According to Vidit, Gukesh continues to work hard and has brought fresh ideas to his games but has struggled to produce the efficiency that characterised his rise to the world title.

“Usually he would convert very well, but now he is missing those wins. He is coming under time-induced pressure a lot. He is working very hard. That’s very clear from the games. But something is missing.” Vidit, however, felt Gukesh could still return to his best, provided he can overcome the mental baggage of his recent results.

“That doesn’t mean that in the World Championship, he cannot go back to his 2024 version. It will require a lot of inner strength because when you don’t do well, you struggle mentally.”

“So, it’s a test of his mental strength rather than a test of his chess. Can he forget everything that has happened this year and go as a challenger, not as someone defending the World Championship?” Vidit expects a closely contested match if Gukesh can achieve that mental reset, though he acknowledged Sindarov currently has the momentum.

“Both of them are very strong players. Of course, right now, Sindarov is in better shape. There is no doubt in that.”