Gukesh's Post-Champion Hurdles: World-Class Players Weigh In

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Mumbai: D Gukesh's recent win in the Global Chess League (GCL) against world No.3 Fabiano Caruana has sparked a renewed debate about the Indian's standing in the chess world. The 19-year-old, who became the classical world champion in December 2022, has faced a quiet year, marked by a dip in form and increased pressure to perform. Top-ranked players like Fabiano Caruana, Anish Giri, Hou Yifan, Wesley So, and Alireza Firouzja have shared their perspectives on Gukesh's situation. Caruana noted that the world champion title doesn't necessarily translate to being the best player in the world, but rather puts pressure on the individual to live up to expectations. Giri echoed this sentiment, stating that there isn't a clear-cut best player at the moment, and that Gukesh's win was a result of being in the right place at the right time. Hou Yifan, a three-time women's world champion, emphasized that the world title doesn't automatically make someone the best player, and that young players like Gukesh face unique pressures and expectations. Wesley So, a seasoned player, believes Gukesh has the potential to continue improving and maintaining his hunger for success. Alireza Firouzja, a rising star, predicts interesting battles between Gukesh and other top players, given the young Indian's youth and room for improvement. As Gukesh navigates the challenges of being a world champion, he will likely face continued scrutiny and pressure to perform. However, with the support of his peers and his own determination, he may be able to overcome these hurdles and continue to excel in the chess world.