“Gukesh will lose his title in the next match”, says Abdusattorov
The chess world is buzzing at the moment with the FIDE Grand Swiss and Women’s Grand Swiss about to commence in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. And in an interview with FIDE, when asked to give an “unpopular opinion”, Uzbek #1 Nodirbek Abdusattorov had something to say about the capabilities of his rival and the reigning world champion from India.
“Gukesh will lose his title in the next match,” is what Nodirbek responded with when he was asked to give an unpopular chess opinion.
Not just Nodirbek but many other high-profile chess players, including Levon Aronian and Magnus Carlsen, famously, have been critical of Gukesh’s capabilities, especially in speed chess formats. As expressed during a podcast on Chess Mustreader’s YouTube, Aronian believed that despite him being a very strong calculator, he did not see Gukesh as someone who would dominate. Aronian also noted that the Indian is still young and remains one of the best players in the world. On the other hand, Magnus Carlsen’s numerous remarks on the teenage world champion have previously made headlines. Following the pattern, this unpopular opinion by Abdusattorov aligns with the question mark that other top players have put on the world champion. Is it justified, though?
Despite the recent results not being in his favour, for instance, a 7th place finish at the GCT St Louis Rapid & Blitz followed by a below-par Sinquefield Cup where he finished #8, Gukesh has remained determined to find his form, which led him to the title. Being the world champion gives very little incentive, yet the Indian has arrived in Samarkand to contest for the FIDE Grand Swiss – perhaps to make a statement. With the presence of potential challengers in the same room, including Praggnanandhaa, Erigaisi, and Abdusattorov, the tension is building in Samarkand, setting up an exciting Grand Swiss for the fans to witness!
Will Gukesh be able to silence all the noise? We’ll find out!
Photo courtesy: Lennart Ootes
