Gukesh is feeling the weight. After a disappointing Norway Chess, the world champion opened up to Hindustan Times about the psychological toll of his position. He's young, he's the titleholder, and everyone expects dominance. That's a different beast than chasing.
The Indian grandmaster spoke about how scrutiny intensifies once you wear the crown. Every draw looks like a missed win. Every loss invites questions. He reflected on the challenge of actually enjoying the game when the world watches your every move, waiting for the next slip.
What matters here is what Gukesh acknowledged. He didn't make excuses. He admitted the pressure is real and different from his climb to the top. That's the honest assessment of a 19-year-old dealing with expectations that would crush most players.
Gukesh's first title defence looms. Norway Chess showed he's vulnerable to current preparation and tactics from players like Caruana and Aronian. His reflection suggests he understands the adjustment needed. The psychological piece is crucial now. Champions who win twice are the ones who learn to compartmentalize the noise and play chess again, not the pressure.