D Gukesh’s Viral Celebration (Screengrab) NEW DELHI: World champion D Gukesh is known for his calm expression and ice-cold composure on the board. That is why his emotional celebration after defeating Javokhir Sindarov at the Grand Chess Tour Super Rapid and Blitz 2026 in Poland on Wednesday immediately caught the attention of the entire chess world.The Indian grandmaster rarely shows outward emotion during games, but moments after sealing victory against the Uzbek prodigy, Gukesh pumped his fist while still sitting at the plate, a rare glimpse of how much the win meant to him.
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Vincent Keymer Exclusive: Becoming Germany’s No. 1, Intimidating Magnus Carlsen and moreThe win was of particular significance as it was his first meeting with Sindarov since the Uzbek became Gukesh’s challenger at the World Championships later this year.Watch the celebration here:The result also came at an important time for Gukesh. The reigning champion recently left the main circuit of the Grand Chess Tour to focus on preparing and regaining his rhythm before defending his world title. After a disappointing loss to Poland’s Radoslav Wojtashek in the previous round, there were questions about his form. Sindarov also entered the clash after suffering a defeat to tournament leader Wesley So.But against his future title rival, Gukesh looked completely shut down.Playing with the black pieces, the Indian chose the Caro-Kann defense and confidently entered a sharp, dynamic position after Sindarov chose an unconventional set-up. The aggressive approach suited Gukesh perfectly. As the middle game unfolded, the Indian gradually seized control and won pawns before taking advantage of Sindarov’s risky attack attempts.The pressure slowly shifted completely to the Uzbek grandmaster. Gukesh calmly absorbed the attack, picked up more material and simplified the game after exchanging queens. From this point the result never seemed in doubt as the Indian smoothly converted his advantage in 52 moves.The emotional fist pump at the end perhaps said more than words could. It wasn’t just another tournament win for Gukesh. It was an early psychological statement against a player who hopes to claim his world crown later this year.
