India, June 13 -- 2024 saw D Gukesh become the youngest-ever world champion, achieving what most chess players dream of. In 2024, he became the youngest-ever winner of the Candidates tournament. He defeated Ding Liren to become the youngest world chess champion in history, breaking Garry Kasparov's long-standing record.

But since becoming the world champion, life hasn't been straightforward for Gukesh. Since becoming the world champion in 2024, Gukesh has found himself dealing with higher expectations. Every opponent is more motivated to defeat him, and his results are analysed more closely than before.

His performances at the FIDE Grand Swiss and the World Cup last year did not match his standards. In 2025, he defeated Magnus Carlsen, ...