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World Champion Gukesh hails Vaishali after her 2026 Women’s Candidates victory in Cyprus, while he prepares to defend his crown against Javokhir Sindarov.
World Championship Challenger (Women) Vaishali R and World Champion (Open) Gukesh at a celebration ceremony in Chennai (Credit: X/ChessBaseIndia)
When two of India’s brightest chess stars share a moment, it’s bound to feel special.
Reigning World Champion Gukesh D stated that he couldn’t hide his excitement after R Vaishali clinched the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament, booking her place at the Women’s World Championship later this year.
“I Just Screamed”
Vaishali’s win in Cyprus was a breakthrough moment, and Gukesh was glued to it.
“I was following Vaishali Akka’s game and I just screamed when she won,” he said during a felicitation event in Chennai.
He didn’t stop there.
“Huge congrats to Vaishali Akka. Since the 2024 Candidates, I’ve always been amazed by the character she shows in any tournament. And I’m really glad that we both can fight for the World Championship.”
Vaishali, calm as ever, had a light response ready.
“I hope we both will win (the World Championship) and we’ll have yet another celebration,” she said, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd.
A Title Sealed Under Pressure By Vaishali
Facing a must-win situation in the final round of the 2026 Women’s Candidates, Vaishali delivered with the white pieces, defeating Kateryna Lagno in the final round.
She finished on 8.5 points, edging Bibisara Assaubayeva by half a point in a tight finish. And by doing so, she booked herself a clash with reigning champion Ju Wenjun for the world title.
Gukesh’s Lukewarm Season So Far
While Vaishali rides momentum, Gukesh’s journey has been more complicated.
Since becoming the youngest world champion in 2024, results haven’t quite followed for the now-20-year-old Indian. A dip in form, a drop of around 51 rating points, and growing scrutiny have all added pressure to an already highly criticised title win.
And now, there’s another challenge waiting.
Javokhir Sindarov, fresh off a historic Candidates campaign, now stands as the next major hurdle — as both GMs will face off in what is set to be the youngest ever World Championship title clash in chess history.
April 29, 2026, 13:57 IST
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