Gukesh’s Increased Success is Irrefutably Altering the Chess Landscape
The chess community is in a frenzy because D Gukesh, an Indian Grandmaster who recently turned 19 years old, defeated Magnus Carlsen a second time within a month’s time frame; this time during the rapid format in SuperUnited. Gukesh’s victory came alongside a winning streak, making him the tournament’s victor of 5 matches in a row which placed him on the top of the leaderboard, further raising concerns on whether a significantly impacted global chess paradigm was pending.
Carlsen’s Candid Confession: “I’m Not Enjoying Chess Right Now”
Following his loss, Carlsen made a striking admission in a post-game interview:
“Honestly, I am not enjoying playing chess at all right now. I just, I don’t feel any flow at all when I’m playing. I’m constantly hesitating and it’s just really poor right now,” Carlsen told ‘Take Take Take’ after the loss.
This rare moment of vulnerability from the world number one highlights the psychological toll of repeated defeats, especially against a player he had previously dismissed as “weak” in faster formats.
The Match: From Advantage to Resignation
The game began positively for Carlsen. Even with the white pieces, a color he usually thrived with, he held an advantage. But Gukesh, rather calm and tactical, managed to reverse the situation. The Norwegian resigned after 49 moves with a minimal handshake and a disappointed grimace, emotionless compared to his prior reactions.
Gukesh’s Meteoric Rise and Carlsen’s Uncertainty
Gukesh fully cemented himself as a powerful contender to Carlsen with back-to-back wins, first in classical chess during Norway Chess, followed by rapid chess. He continues to leave chess enthusiasts in awe for his remarkable ability to recover from unfavorable positions. Even legends such as Garry Kasparov have commented. With bold statements like, “Now we can question Magnus’ domination. It’s not just the second loss; it’s a very convincing loss!”
What’s Next for Carlsen and the Chess Elite?
Carlsen still topping the rank list does not seem to ease his personal struggles. Comments alongside gameplay performance suggest a possible change in the number one spot. All eyes are now on Gukesh as he goes to the last day of rapid play as the only wizard. Is this the dawn of a new era, or will we see Carlsen dominate again?
