New Delhi: Chess may be a game of intellect, precision, and centuries-old tradition, but at its core, it remains a solitary battleground where even the strongest minds fight alone. Yet, behind the stillness of concentration lies an entire spectrum of emotions and personalities that often go unnoticed. Dutch No. 1 Anish Giri recently touched upon this fascinating duality while speaking to TimesofIndia.com, offering rare insight into the “different modes” of reigning World Chess Champion D Gukesh.
Anish Giri calls Gukesh a “different person” in different environments
During the conversation, Giri recalled several instances where he observed remarkable variations in Gukesh’s behaviour depending on the occasion. From intense tournament moments to relaxed social gatherings, the 19-year-old Indian Grandmaster seemed to switch seamlessly between contrasting personas.
“Gukesh was not in my team in the last GCL, but I’ve been with him on many different occasions. During tournaments, after tournaments, I was with him at Vidit’s wedding as well,” Giri said. “And it’s like different people every time. When Gukesh is at Vidit’s wedding, he is a different person than when he is playing the second round of Wijk aan Zee. Some people have this very, very strong game mode.”
The observation highlights a trait seen in many elite athletes across sports — the ability to “switch on” mentally when performance demands it. For Gukesh, this contrast is especially pronounced, according to Giri’s first-hand experience.
Gukesh explains: “It has mostly been natural”
On Friday, Gukesh took to X to interact with his rapidly growing fanbase. When a follower asked whether this behavioural shift was a natural trait or something developed consciously over the years, the teenager offered a candid reply.
“It has mostly been natural, and I have been similar outside of chess too, but the last couple of years, I’m more engaging and open outside of chess. But it was never through effort; everything happened on its own,” he wrote.
The Chennai-born prodigy, who stunned the world by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion, continues to impress fans not just with his skill but also with his grounded personality and maturity.
Giri prepares for Candidates 2026; a potential rematch with Gukesh awaits
Having won the FIDE Grand Swiss 2025, Giri has already secured a place in the 2026 Candidates Tournament. A triumph there would pave the way for a world title clash against Gukesh — a match-up the global chess community is eagerly anticipating.
Before that, the two might cross paths in the upcoming Global Chess League (GCL). The third edition of the GCL begins on December 14 at Mumbai’s historic Royal Opera House. Giri will represent Alpine SG Pipers, while Gukesh turns out for PBG Alaskan Knights — the team Giri captained in earlier seasons.
With both players approaching peak form and the league promising high-voltage clashes, fans may witness more of the fascinating behavioural “modes” that make Gukesh such a compelling figure in modern chess.
A sport of solitude, a world full of personality
Chess, despite its solitary nature, continues to reveal layers of human character beneath calculated moves and stoic expressions. Giri’s insights into Gukesh highlight how the next generation of players brings not only exceptional talent but also unique identities to the sport.
As the chess world gears up for the GCL and the road to Candidates 2026, the dynamic between Giri and Gukesh promises to be one of the most engaging narratives of the coming year.