New Delhi: Reigning world champion D Gukesh will look to secure his first major success of the year when he headlines India’s campaign at the Prague International Chess Festival in the Czech Republic, beginning Wednesday. After an early exit at the World Cup and a subdued showing at the Tata Steel Masters, Gukesh will aim to regain momentum in a high quality Masters field.
Seeded second, the 10th ranked player in the live world ratings enters the tournament as India’s highest rated Grandmaster. He faces stiff competition from top seed Vincent Keymer, who currently sits fourth in the live rankings, and Uzbekistan’s in form Nodirbek Abdusattorov, fresh off his maiden Tata Steel Masters title. Both rivals have enjoyed stronger recent results, adding further intrigue to the nine round Masters event.
India’s representation also includes defending champion Aravindh Chithambaram, who earned his breakthrough title at this very tournament. Seeded seventh this year, Chithambaram will be keen to rediscover form after a below par Tata Steel campaign and re enter the elite 2700 rating bracket.
The field features several other prominent names. American Grandmaster Hans Niemann adds competitive edge, while Iran’s Parham Maghsoodloo and Dutch player Jorden van Foreest bring depth and consistency. The lineup is completed by Nodirbek Yakubboev, Spain’s David Anton Guijarro, and Czech star David Navara.
In the Challengers section, veteran Surya Shekhar Ganguly leads the Indian challenge alongside Women’s World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh. Hungary’s Benjamin Gledura starts as the top seed in this category.
With a strong and balanced lineup across sections, the festival offers Gukesh a timely opportunity to reassert himself on the global stage.
