D Gukesh makes classical chess comeback against elite lineup at Sinquefield Cup

World Champion D Gukesh is set to make his highly anticipated return to classical chess as he takes on a star-studded lineup at the Sinquefield Cup, beginning Monday in St. Louis. The event marks the fifth leg of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT) and promises thrilling battles across nine rounds of elite competition.

Although Gukesh has been showcasing impressive performances in faster formats, classical chess remains his strongest suit. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether the young Indian prodigy can reclaim dominance in his preferred format against some of the biggest names in the sport.

High-profile rivals await for D Gukesh

The tournament may miss the presence of World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, who has distanced himself from classical play, but the competition remains fierce. D Gukesh will be joined by fellow Indian sensation R Praggnanandhaa, who enters the event riding a wave of momentum after securing a spot in next year’s Candidates Tournament.

The field features some of the most accomplished grandmasters in the world, including Fabiano Caruana (USA), Alireza Firouzja (France), Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (France), and the ever-resilient Levon Aronian (USA). Aronian, in particular, has been in dazzling form, recently clinching back-to-back titles at the Freestyle Chess event in Las Vegas and the St. Louis Rapid & Blitz.

A crucial stop on the Grand Chess Tour

The Sinquefield Cup serves as a vital step on the Grand Chess Tour, where consistency is key to qualifying for the grand finale later this year. With a prize pool of $350,000, the stakes are high. For Gukesh, it’s not just about the trophy—it’s about making a statement in the classical arena after a brief break.

Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa will be aiming for a podium finish to strengthen his fifth-place standing in the overall GCT rankings. Both he and D Gukesh have already confirmed their participation in the Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan next month, showcasing their ambition to stay sharp and compete at the highest levels across formats.

All eyes on India’s rising stars

While seasoned veterans like Caruana and Vachier-Lagrave are expected to pose tough challenges, the spotlight remains firmly on the young Indian duo. D Gukesh’s return to classical play is seen as a crucial step in his journey as World Champion, while Praggnanandhaa continues to build his reputation as one of the most promising contenders of his generation.

With the stage set in St. Louis, the Sinquefield Cup promises intense matchups, dramatic finishes, and a deeper glimpse into the ever-evolving landscape of world chess.