Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 15: Fresh off his victory at the FIDE Candidates 2026, Javokhir Sindarov has turned his attention to a blockbuster World Chess Championship showdown against reigning champion D Gukesh, praising the Indian prodigy ahead of their much-awaited encounter later this year.
Sindarov clinched the Candidates title in commanding style, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. He secured victory with 9.5 points by the end of Round 13, wrapping up the competition with a round to spare and underlining his exceptional form.
With the World Championship match slated for the November–December window, anticipation is already building around the clash between two of the brightest young stars in global chess.
Speaking about his opponent, Sindarov acknowledged Gukesh’s stature in the game. “He’s the youngest champion in history and one of the best players in the world. He has many strong qualities, and it will be a very exciting match. I’m really looking forward to it. He also has a very strong team — I wish him good luck,” he said in an interaction with ChessBase India.
Despite Sindarov’s current momentum, Gukesh remains a formidable force, having made history as the youngest-ever world champion after defeating Ding Liren in 2024.
Reflecting on his Candidates campaign, Sindarov attributed his success to discipline and focus. He emphasized that staying immersed in preparation and minimizing distractions — including social media — played a crucial role in his consistent performance.
The 20-year-old demonstrated remarkable composure throughout the tournament, handling pressure situations with maturity beyond his age and maintaining steady results against top-level competition.
On a lighter note, Sindarov also shared his preference for the championship venue, expressing a fondness for warmer climates. “If it’s held in December, I’d prefer a warmer place — maybe somewhere like Cyprus. I wouldn’t want to play such an important match in cold weather,” he remarked.
The upcoming title clash promises to be a defining moment for the sport, as a new generation of chess talent prepares to battle for the game’s highest honor.