Indian Chess Prodigy Gukesh Faces Criticism, Backed by Viswanathan Anand

Indian Chess Prodigy Gukesh Finds Ally in Viswanathan Anand Amid World Championship Criticism

Indian chess sensation D. Gukesh, widely regarded as a prodigy and the future of Indian chess, found himself in the spotlight during the World Chess Championship finals. While his performance in the final rounds drew criticism from certain quarters—particularly about his ability to handle high-pressure games—former world champion Viswanathan Anand has stepped up to defend the young grandmaster.

Criticism and Support

Some critics pointed out inconsistencies in Gukesh's play during key moments of the championship, questioning whether he was ready for the challenges of competing at the highest level. However, Anand, a five-time world champion and a mentor to many young Indian players, dismissed these concerns as shortsighted.

“Gukesh has achieved at 18 what most players can only dream of. He has consistently demonstrated his talent, and this experience will only make him stronger,” Anand remarked. He urged Gukesh to stay focused and ignore negative comments, emphasizing the importance of learning from setbacks in a chess career.

Gukesh's Achievements

At just 18 years old, Gukesh has already broken into the top echelons of world chess. He became the youngest Indian to surpass a rating of 2700 on the FIDE Elo scale and has been compared to legends like Magnus Carlsen for his sharp, creative style of play. His journey has been marked by several landmark victories, including a stellar performance at the Chess Olympiad, where he was pivotal in India’s success.

A Bright Future

Despite the criticism, Gukesh’s future in chess looks incredibly promising. Experts believe that competing in events like the World Chess Championship finals is vital for his growth and that the experience will help him develop the mental toughness required to win at this level.

Fans and fellow players alike have rallied around Gukesh, celebrating his achievements and expressing confidence in his potential to become a world champion in the future. Social media is abuzz with messages of support, with many emphasizing that setbacks are part of every champion's journey.

Conclusion

As Gukesh navigates this phase of his career, the support of luminaries like Viswanathan Anand and the chess community will play a crucial role in his development. For now, Gukesh remains an inspiring figure in Indian chess, representing the nation’s burgeoning talent on the global stage.