D Gukesh began his Chess World Cup 2025 at Resort Rio in Goa on Tuesday, a beginning of another big campaign for the reigning World Champion. With a bye in the first round, Gukesh took on Kazakhstan’s GM Kazybek Nogerbek in the second, who is the champion of the Junior World Championship in 2025. Though a heavy favourite, the Indian was held to a hard-fought draw, with Nogerbek putting up a fighting display playing with the black pieces.
Currently one of India’s most celebrated sporting icons following his historic World Championship win over Ding Liren, Gukesh’s arrival in Goa created a buzz. Fans thronged the venue hoping to catch a glimpse of him, and the young champion didn’t disappoint he stopped to greet admirers and sign autographs, showcasing his trademark humility.
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However, 2025 has been pretty inconsistent for Gukesh in terms of form. While he won the World Championship on December 12 last year, his performances since then have remained inconsistent. He had a great October 2024, with 30.1 Elo rating points gained, but has managed only one positive month since a meager +10.2 in March 2025.
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By comparison, his ratings have dropped in most other months, including a dramatic dip of -14.5 in October 2025. His rating over the last year is 2702-points, a fair way off his best ever rating of 2794 attained during his heady days in October 2024.
Even so, with his title credentials and the crowd firmly behind him, Gukesh is one of the biggest attractions at this year’s Chess World Cup.
