 "Magnus Carlsen asked to define Gukesh in one word, his reply will leave you in awe; watch video")
A fun video is going viral on social media, where some of the world’s top chess players were asked to describe the current world champion D Gukesh in just one word. The light-hearted interaction was recorded during the recently concluded SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia tournament.
Carlsen on Gukesh
Five-time world champion and current World No.1 Magnus Carlsen also joined the fun. When asked to define Gukesh, Carlsen said “wholesome”, perfectly describing the young Indian star’s humble and calm personality.
Other elite players also had their say. Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa called him “world champion”, while American GM Fabiano Caruana went with “phenomenal.” Dutch GM Anish Giri described Gukesh as a “sportsman,” and Alireza Firouzja called him a “fighter.”
Define Gukesh in one word! pic.twitter.com/1Ns6xOlHLh
— Chess.com - India (@chesscom_in) July 23, 2025
Carlsen had beaten Gukesh in the opening round of 2025 Norway Chess but then suffered this dramatic loss in Round 6. It was Carlsen’s first-ever classical game loss to the Indian star. Despite the heartbreak, Carlsen went on to win the event, while Gukesh finished third.
Then in Croatia, Gukesh once again defeated Carlsen after the Norwegian legend made a blunder. Once again, Carlsen managed to put aside the hiccup and went on to win the tournament with a total of 22.5 points and $40,000 cash prize. Gukesh finished third and won $25,000.
Gukesh was supposed to participate in the Las Vegas leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam event. However, the 19-year-old pulled out of the competition, citing his wish to prioritise preparations for the upcoming tournaments. It is important to note that Gukesh has not been at his best in Freestyle Chess and this could be one of the reasons behind his exit.
Meanwhile, Gukesh recently made a rare appearance in the Early Titled Tuesday online competition. The Indian star finished 18th after losing three games. Hikaru Nakamura, who is the current World No. 2, won the event.
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