Sindarov Beats Gukesh in Blitz, Evens Rivalry Ahead of World Championship

Uzbek grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov defeated Indian world champion D Gukesh in a blitz game at the Grand Chess Tour Super Rapid and Blitz event in Warsaw on Friday, marking his first win over Gukesh in blitz and avenging a rapid chess loss two days prior. The result comes amid rising tension between the two, who are set to meet in the 2026 World Chess Championship.

Gukesh had drawn attention earlier in the tournament with a rare emotional celebration—a seated fist pump—after defeating Sindarov in rapid play, a moment that went viral in chess circles. Known for his composure, Gukesh's reaction underscored the significance of the win at the time. Sindarov, in contrast, showed no visible emotion after Friday's victory, offering only a firm handshake.

The rivalry intensified during Gukesh's rapid win, where he overcame Sindarov playing with the black pieces, navigating a sharp Caro-Kann Defence to win in 52 moves. That result had reassured Gukesh's form following an earlier upset loss to Poland's Radoslav Wojtaszek.

With one win apiece, the two grandmasters are now level heading into Saturday's final reverse-blitz round in Warsaw. The upcoming match carries added weight as both players position for psychological advantage ahead of their scheduled World Championship contest.