R Praggnanandhaa anticipates a compelling World Chess Championship match, pointing out that defending the crown carries an unprecedented level of competitive pressure for D Gukesh. While challenger Javokhir Sindarov arrives in strong form, Gukesh has demonstrated encouraging momentum following his confident Olympiad showings. The historic Swiss event features a 14-game classical format with a $2.5 million prize fund, alongside potential tiebreakers if the players finish level.
Key points
The upcoming clash marks the youngest World Championship contest in chess history and the…: The upcoming clash marks the youngest World Championship contest in chess history and the first between two players of their generation.
A potential tiebreaker is scheduled for December 12 if the two finalists conclude the cla…: A potential tiebreaker is scheduled for December 12 if the two finalists conclude the classical games in a 7-7 draw.
Praggnanandhaa downplayed holding India's top ranking, noting it has frequently shifted b…: Praggnanandhaa downplayed holding India's top ranking, noting it has frequently shifted between himself, Gukesh, and Arjun Erigaisi.
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NEW DELHI: India's top-ranked chess player, R Praggnanandhaa, believes the upcoming World Chess Championship match between D Gukesh and Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov will be an interesting contest, with both grandmasters bringing different strengths into the battle.
Pragg also highlighted the additional pressure that comes with defending the world title, saying it is something he cannot fully understand without experiencing it himself.
Speaking to ChessBase India, Praggnanandhaa said he has known both 20-year-olds Gukesh and Sindarov since their early years in chess. He recalled playing against Sindarov for the first time in 2013 and facing Gukesh around the same period.
He described the upcoming contest as a special occasion for their generation, as it will be the first World Championship match featuring two players from their age group.
"I think it's going to be interesting," Pragg said, adding that he was looking forward to following the contest. He also acknowledged Sindarov's recent form but pointed out that Gukesh had produced some encouraging performances at the Olympiad and appeared confident.
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