If you were also excited to witness Gukesh D vs. Magnus Carlsen again in the Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025, well, we might have some bad news for you. Gukesh D vs. Magnus Carlsen isn’t happening at the Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025. But why isn’t the reigning World Chess Champion playing in Sin City when the world’s top grandmasters have come together for this iconic event? Let’s break it down.
The Big Announcement, and the Big Miss
When the official Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025 roster was revealed, fans immediately spotted the absence of Gukesh D, who’s recently been the talk of the chess world. Instead, headliners like Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, Hans Niemann, Indian stars Vidit Gujrathi, Arjun Erigaisi, and even history-maker Bibisara Assaubayeva grabbed the spotlight. For many, the hope was to see another iconic Gukesh vs Carlsen showdown, especially after their recent intense battles. But this time, the dream match-up isn’t happening.
The Official Reason Behind Gukesh D’s Absence
The answer for his absence from the Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025, straight from Freestyle Chess CEO Jan Henric Buettner, is simple but very real: exhaustion. Gukesh has been on a non-stop grind. After taking part in the Weissenhaus and Paris Grand Slams (where his performances weren’t as electrifying as fans expected), he dived straight into the high-stakes Norway Chess 2025 event. There, he finished on the podium, but the schedule took a toll. According to Buettner, Gukesh told organizers he was worn out, needed rest, and couldn’t push himself for another top-tier event back-to-back.
“He said he’s exhausted and needs rest. His performances have not been that good at any Grand Slam. We were always expecting that he would decline to participate in the next event. Anyway, he had an invitation (for the Las Vegas leg). So after his not-so-good performance in Paris, he was still up for the task. He said, ‘We’re gonna come. I will come to Las Vegas.” Buettner explained.
He added, “But then, there was Norway Chess. This exhausted him so much. Even I would be exhausted. He was so exhausted that I got a message. He said he’s exhausted and would like to rest. He can’t come to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, he needs rest. So, you know, that’s understandable,”
What Does This Mean for Chess Fans?
The stage is still set for an electrifying event at the Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025. With Carlsen shining with a 2900 Elo rating in Freestyle Chess, Hans Niemann coming back after qualifying online, and Bibisara making history as the first woman in a Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, the tournament promises heavy action and fresh storylines. But yes, for fans hoping for a Gukesh comeback, the wait continues. If anything, his absence makes us look forward even more to his next move, hopefully once he’s back to full power.
In the end, it’s a healthy reminder: even superstars need rest. And Gukesh D, who’s already achieved so much at such a young age, is putting his health and future success first this time. Let the other players battle it out at the Freestyle Chess Las Vegas 2025. Gukesh D will surely be watching, and so will we.
Also Read: Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Las Vegas 2025 Starts Today
