Chess legend Judit Polgar has questioned D Gukesh's ability to retain his World Chess Championship title later in 2026 amid the Indian prodigy's recent struggles, while defeated rival Ding Liren has hinted at a potential return after enjoying time away from elite competition.
D Gukesh, who became the youngest World Chess Champion at age 18 by defeating China's Ding Liren in the November-December 2024 match, has struggled since claiming the crown. In a March 12, 2026, interview with The Indian Express, four-time women's World Champion Judit Polgar—the only woman ever ranked in chess's top 10—expressed skepticism about his title retention. "There is a very, very big question mark whether Gukesh can stay the world champion at the end of this year," she said, while affirming his great future.
Polgar attributed Gukesh's victory more to mental strength than superior play, noting Ding's psychological issues, including a pivotal rook to f2 in the final game. However, as champion, Gukesh faces immense expectations, leading to a shift: fewer risks, self-doubt, and poorer results. His closest to victory post-title was a tiebreaker final loss at Tata Steel Chess in Wijk aan Zee 2025. At Prague Masters 2026, he managed just one win, finishing joint bottom, and spoke of needing a break.
Polgar compared him to Magnus Carlsen, urging technical and mental growth: "He has to not only work on his chess, but also has to spend a lot of time on his psychological mental preparation. How not to be afraid of making mistakes and play it out." She predicts the FIDE Candidates winner in April 2026 will claim the title from Gukesh.
Meanwhile, Ding Liren, inactive since the loss and off FIDE's classical rating list, shared in a March 2026 interview with Jonathan Zhi that he enjoys his leisure: "I quite enjoy my current situation... being a player with an inactive rating, who seldom participates in elite invitationals." He plays occasional online games without heavy prep but ended optimistically: "Thank you, everyone, for your support. Keeping a low profile is for a better return," fueling speculation of a top-level comeback.
