Just 18, Gukesh Dommaraju is on the cusp of an extraordinary achievement – he is about to fight against Ding Liren in the match that will determine the new world champion.
The Indian prodigy's rapid ascend to the top has stunned many in the chess world. In a recent interview with the media, organized by FIDE, Gukesh shared his thoughts on the upcoming match, his preparation, and what he thinks of his opponent.
"The year so far has been quite good," Gukesh said, reflecting on his recent successes. "A lot of interesting chess and some nice achievements. I'm really looking forward to the World Championship match in Singapore. It's coming soon, and I'm quite eager to start the match."
Photo: Michal Walusza
While many have labeled him as the favorite for the title, Gukesh is understandably more cautious.
"In general, I don't believe in predictions and who are the favorites. I just think whoever shows up every day as the best will win the game eventually," he explained.
"I'm just focusing on the process, and I try to be at my best every day and play a good game. I just want to enjoy the experience."
And when it comes to that process, he outlined key elements of it: "The process is pretty much typical for the World Championships. I have a team, and we are preparing hard. I'm trying to be at my best and enjoy each moment of this journey."
Photo: Saint Louis Chess Club | Lennart Ootes
When asked about Ding Liren and whether he had any specific strategies in mind for the match, Gukesh was diplomatic yet insightful. "It'll be an interesting match for sure. We are both strong players, and there'll be a lot of exciting games. I hope it's a beautiful experience for all chess lovers," he said. "As for my team, I can say Gajewski will be my trainer for the match, but beyond that, I can't reveal much."
A key theme throughout the interview was the question about how well the 18-year-old can handle the pressure of playing such a demanding and high-profile event, particularly on the international stage where he represents India. "It's always a privilege to play for India at such a high level, and I enjoy the experience. I think how I handle pressure is mostly through experience. I've played in many high-pressure situations, though not the World Championship, of course," he noted. "But I'm looking forward to the new experience."
It's a rare feat to become a role model at 18, but Gukesh seems to have achieved that, and many players are inspired by his meteoric rise. But his message to anyone wanting to follow in his footsteps is simple: "Just enjoy the game; chess is a beautiful game. It has many benefits. If you enjoy it, it's a very good hobby to have. And if you're talented, it's very nice to be a professional chess player."
Photo: Michal Walusza
Gukesh, like many of his contemporaries, belongs to the "computer generation" – kids who grew up with engines significantly stronger than humans and who learned with those engines and not via books. In the interview, he was asked about the influence computers have on chess preparation.
One of the interesting points raised during the interview was about the influence of computers on chess preparation, something Magnus Carlsen has openly expressed frustration with in his decision not to defend the crown. But Gukesh's outlook is different: "It's different for Magnus and me. Magnus has been doing this for so many years, and I'm just coming up, so it's a new experience for me. I basically enjoy the process," he said. "It's hard work, but I'm enjoying it, and let's see how things unfold."
Another topic was his age and the advantages and disadvantages that come with it.
Photo: Michal Walusza
"Because of my age, compared to the more experienced players, I have more energy levels, and it's easier to stay focused during long tournaments," he said, before acknowledging, "The disadvantage is obviously that I'm not as experienced and haven't played as much as them. But, so far, it's been positive."
For the first time in the history of the game, both players come from Asia – signifying a symbolic return of chess to its roots.
"It's nice that this will be the first time there is no European in a World Championship match. I hope it becomes even more popular in Asia," Gukesh remarked. "We're already seeing some very nice growth. China has been a superpower for a few years, and Uzbekistan is catching up. But in India, chess is already quite popular, and I hope it grows even bigger."
The venue for this momentous match holds a special place in Gukesh's heart as well—Singapore. "I've been there a couple of times. Once on vacation before I started playing chess, and the other time was one of my first international wins—some Asian under-nine tournament, I think. I have some pleasant memories from that championship in Singapore," he shared with a smile. "Singapore is a beautiful country, and I'm super glad to have the match there."