Teen chess prodigy D Gukesh stunned the chess world yet again with a sensational Rapid win over Magnus Carlsen at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia, marking a milestone moment in his meteoric rise.
Despite a modest showing in the Blitz rounds, Gukesh secured third place overall, behind Wesley So and eventual winner Magnus Carlsen.
Carlsen, the reigning world No. 1, finished with 22.5 points, followed by So at 20, Gukesh at 19.5, and Jan-Krzysztof Duda at 16. But the highlight remained Gukesh’s victory over Carlsen in the Rapid section, a result that not only challenged earlier doubts about his short-format prowess but also made Carlsen reassess his views.
Coach Credits “Faster Time Control” Training
Speaking to The New Indian Express, Gukesh’s chief trainer Grzegorz Gajewski revealed the strategic shift that helped his 19-year-old ward sharpen his performance in faster formats.
“We are doing exercises strictly devoted to the faster time control—training games and specific drills,” Gajewski explained.
He acknowledged the burden of expectation that comes with Gukesh’s new status as world champion.
“Chess-wise, it’s a tricky period. As world champion, the expectations are sky-high. People forget he’s only 19. Sometimes he forgets that. He’s ambitious and wants to dominate every match, but the competition is fierce—many of his opponents are older and more experienced,” the coach added.
Despite a disappointing Blitz section, where Carlsen outclassed him to reclaim dominance, the overall tournament reflected Gukesh’s versatility and tenacity across formats.
Gajewski emphasized long-term growth over format-specific victories:
“For me, the most important thing is that Gukesh improves overall as a player—not just in Blitz or Classical or Rapid. Once he strengthens those areas, success in all formats will follow.”
Carlsen’s Redemption, Gukesh’s Revelation
The clash between Gukesh and Carlsen has quickly become a highlight rivalry in modern chess. After losing to Gukesh in Classical and Rapid, Carlsen’s masterclass in the Blitz rounds served as fitting revenge. However, the young Indian’s resilience and evolving skillset have clearly sent a message to the chess elite: Gukesh is no longer just a rising star—he’s a formidable force.
As Gukesh continues to refine his game and embrace the pressures of global competition, all eyes will be on how the teen sensation navigates the road ahead in what’s shaping up to be a generational rivalry.
