If you thought Gukesh D’s World Championship win last year was the peak of his young career, think again. Top American grandmaster Wesley So has dropped a bold prediction: Gukesh must sharpen his game significantly to defend his title successfully. Speaking at the Global Chess League in Mumbai, So highlighted Gukesh’s recent struggles while praising his massive potential.
Gukesh D’s World Triumph
The 19-year-old Indian prodigy, Gukesh D, stunned the chess world by dethroning Ding Liren in 2024, becoming the youngest ever to claim the classical crown. But So, ranked 11th globally after a tough Chess World Cup in Goa, sees room for growth. “Right now, he’s not playing his best chess, but he can bounce back,” said Hindustan Times. He pointed to Gukesh’s rating dip from a peak of 2794 and upcoming tests like the Tata Steel Chess Tournament in Wijk aan Zee as key moments to watch.
What Did Wesley So say
Wesley So’s take adds fuel to the fire amid Gukesh’s post-title form dip. Recent events show flashes of brilliance mixed with inconsistencies, losses in critical positions and fewer killer instincts in middlegames. Yet, the American veteran remains optimistic. Gukesh has time on his side before the 2026 title match, plus a strong support system including five-time champion Viswanathan Anand.
“I think Gukesh has a very good chance because the match is still far in the future. He has time to prepare, get into form, and improve his shape. Right now, he’s not playing his best chess, but he can bounce back. He has an upcoming classical tournament in Wijk aan Zee, which will give a better idea of his current strength.” Wesley So said.
“He also has many coaches and experienced people around him, maybe even Viswanathan Anand could help. Gukesh is very young and continues to improve. His potential is huge. Not long ago, his rating was around 2794, so he can definitely get back there with preparation, mental toughness, and motivation,” he added
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Wesley So Slams FIDE World Cup Format
This bold Gukesh D prediction comes as chess circles buzz with Candidates Tournament qualifiers and format debates. He slammed the World Cup’s new structure, 208 players facing tougher early draws and rating risks, backing Ian Nepomniachtchi’s complaints about Goa’s conditions. He plans to chase Candidates spots via other routes, like the FIDE Circuit, avoiding the knockout lottery where one slip ends dreams.
“Yeah, I think Nepo’s complaints are quite valid. I don’t want to make excuses, but ever since the World Cup format changed in 2021, I’ve never played well in it. Earlier, with 128 players, you’d face a 2350-rated player in round one. Now, with 208 players, you face someone rated 2550. Every draw costs you rating points, so it’s very difficult,” he complained
“FIDE also often hosts it in faraway places, such as Azerbaijan, Eastern Europe, or India, so players living closer have an advantage. You primarily play the World Cup to qualify for the Candidates, but you must win many matches against lower-rated players. One mistake can be very costly. I’ll try to qualify for the Candidates through another route.” So added.
For Gukesh, the stakes are sky-high. Defending a title means facing hungry challengers like Fabiano Caruana, Hikaru Nakamura, and possibly R. Praggnanandhaa in a revived cycle. So’s words serve as a wake-up call: improvement isn’t optional; it’s essential. Wijk aan Zee will offer early clues. Can Gukesh reclaim his edge, or will rust set in?
Also read: Vladimir Fedoseev’s Honorary Titles Taken Away By Russia
