Garry Kasparov, the legendary chess grandmaster, has expressed his concerns about young chess prodigy Gukesh’s readiness for blitz chess, following his performance at the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz tournament. Kasparov noted that while Gukesh achieved a remarkable victory against Magnus Carlsen in the rapid section, this success seemed to have a psychological impact on his subsequent blitz games. According to Kasparov, Gukesh’s performance in the blitz segment was notably weaker, indicating that he might not yet be prepared for the demands of faster-paced chess formats.

The SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz tournament showcased some of the world’s top chess talents, with Gukesh making headlines for his rapid game victory over Carlsen, a former World Chess Champion. This win was significant not only for its strategic brilliance but also for its potential to unsettle Carlsen. However, Kasparov observed that the pressure and expectations following this victory may have affected Gukesh’s mental state during the blitz games. He described Gukesh’s blitz performances as lacking strength and conviction, suggesting that the young player might need more experience and preparation to excel in such high-pressure environments.

Meanwhile, Magnus Carlsen demonstrated resilience by bouncing back in the blitz section after a less impressive showing in the rapid games. His ability to recover and perform strongly highlights his experience and adaptability in various chess formats. Kasparov’s comments underscore the challenges faced by emerging players like Gukesh as they transition from junior competitions to facing seasoned grandmasters on the global stage.

The insights provided by Kasparov, known for his deep understanding of chess psychology and strategy, offer valuable lessons for aspiring chess players. They emphasize the importance of mental fortitude and adaptability in competitive chess, particularly in rapid and blitz formats where quick decision-making is crucial.