D Gukesh, the 18-year-old chess sensation from Chennai, is preparing for his World Chess Championship match against Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren in Singapore next week. Despite being considered a strong favorite, Gukesh is focused on meeting Ding at his best form, following a strategy guided by mental conditioning expert Paddy Upton.
BulletsIn
- Gukesh is the youngest challenger in World Chess Championship history, winning the Candidates Tournament in Toronto this April.
- Set to face Ding Liren, reigning champion, in Singapore next week.
- Guided by Paddy Upton, Gukesh is focusing on facing the best version of Ding.
- Ding has not won a Classical format game since January 2024, entering the match in poor form.
- Gukesh starred in India’s historic Chess Olympiad win in Budapest, scoring eight wins and two draws.
- Preparing intensely for six months since winning the Candidates Tournament.
- Aims to become the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to win the World Championship.
- Former champions, including Anand, warn Ding could regain form unexpectedly.
- Upton emphasized Gukesh’s ability to perform under pressure during big moments.
- Match could mark another milestone in a remarkable year for Indian chess.




What do you think?
It is nice to know your opinion. Leave a comment.