D. Gukesh Faces Third Consecutive Defeat at FIDE Grand Swiss

Indian chess prodigy and reigning World Champion, D. Gukesh, is enduring an unexpected downturn at the 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. After a promising start, Gukesh has suffered three consecutive losses, including a recent defeat to 16-year-old Turkish Grandmaster Ediz Gurel. This marks a significant challenge for the 19-year-old, who now finds himself with just three points from seven rounds.

The Streak of Defeats
Gukesh’s recent losses have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. In Round 5, he was stunned by American Grandmaster Abhimanyu Mishra, who made history by becoming the youngest player ever to defeat a reigning World Champion in classical chess. Round 6 saw Greek Grandmaster Nikolas Theodorou overpower Gukesh, and the latest setback came against Gurel in Round 7. Despite a rest day to regroup, Gukesh’s performance has been below expectations.

The Emotional Toll
Visibly shaken after his third straight loss, Gukesh’s frustration was evident as he left the playing arena, reflecting the emotional strain of the tournament. This sequence of defeats is uncharacteristic for a player of his caliber and has sparked discussions about the pressures faced by top-level chess professionals.

Looking Ahead
With only three points from seven rounds, Gukesh faces an uphill battle to remain in contention for a top finish. He will need to secure victories in the remaining rounds to salvage his position in the tournament. The chess community will be watching closely to see how the young champion responds to this challenging phase.

Conclusion
D. Gukesh’s recent performances at the FIDE Grand Swiss serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of competitive chess. While his current form is a setback, it also presents an opportunity for growth and resilience. Fans and fellow players alike will be eager to see how he navigates the remainder of the tournament and whether he can reclaim his winning form.