Gukesh Bites Back: World Champion Ends Slump At Tata Steel Masters

Last Updated:January 26, 2026, 20:31 IST

D Gukesh halted his losing streak at Tata Steel Masters with a win over Vladimir Fedoseev, moving to four points.

Reigning World Champion D Gukesh (Chess.com)

World champion D Gukesh finally stopped the slide at the Tata Steel Masters on Monday, bouncing back from back-to-back defeats with a confident win over Vladimir Fedoseev in round eight.

Playing with the black pieces, Gukesh was in control from the middle game onward and signed off in style, sacrificing his rook to force resignation after 41 moves. It was a much-needed response after a rocky stretch following the first rest day—and a result that should steady both his campaign and confidence.

The Indian star now moves to four points, firmly back in the mix with five rounds still to play.

Elsewhere, it was a day of narrow escapes rather than fireworks for the Indian contingent. Arjun Erigaisi wriggled out of a difficult position to secure a hard-fought draw against compatriot Aravindh Chithambaram, while R Praggnanandhaa showed trademark resilience to hold Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus despite defending a pawn-down endgame.

Notably, Praggnanandhaa is still searching for his first win of the tournament — an unusual sight given his recent form.

The biggest shake-up came courtesy of hometown favourite Anish Giri, who reignited the title race by handing overnight leader Nodirbek Abdusattorov a rare defeat. Despite the setback, Abdusattorov remains out in front on 5.5 points, with compatriot Javokhir Sindarov still his closest challenger, half a point back after being held to a draw by Vincent Keymer.

With only two decisive results across the seven boards, the standings remain tightly packed. Fourteen-year-old prodigy Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus continues to impress, staying joint third alongside Hans Moke Niemann and Jorden van Foreest, underlining the depth and unpredictability of this year’s field.

Just behind them sits a congested chasing pack. Gukesh’s win pulls him level with Giri, Fedoseev, Keymer and Matthias Bluebaum, all of whom remain very much in contention if they can string together wins down the stretch.

Meanwhile, Erigaisi sits on 3.5 points, still within striking distance but in need of momentum, while Praggnanandhaa will be eager to finally convert his defensive grit into full points.

(with PTI inputs)

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