'Ignore The Noise': Vishy Anand’s Advice To World Champion Gukesh Amid Carlsen's Comments

Last Updated:April 22, 2026, 11:56 IST

Anand urges Gukesh to “ignore the noise” amid criticism and Sindarov’s rise, insisting only results matter as the young world champion faces mounting pressure.

If there’s one voice D Gukesh should be listening to right now, it’s probably Viswanathan Anand.

Because as the reigning world champion navigates a dip in form and mounting criticism, Anand has been through it all before and knows exactly what this phase feels like.

Gukesh’s rise to become the youngest chess world champion in December 2024 was historic. But the aftermath has been far less glamorous.

A drop in results, a loss of around 51 rating points, and growing scrutiny have followed.

Add to that the rise of Uzbek prodigy Javokhir Sindarov — fresh off a record-breaking Candidates win — and suddenly, the pressure is relentless.

‘Ignore The Noise’

Vishy kept it simple: cherish the learnings and shut out the noise.

“What you can learn is to focus on what you can do first of all… just ignore it," Anand said.

“If at some level it bugs you, accept that that’s normal. Nobody promised you perfect happiness."

As a former five-time world champion, it would be safe to assume that Anand knows how to navigate the spotlight.

Criticism Comes With the Crown

The noise around Gukesh hasn’t been subtle.

Legends like Magnus Carlsen and Garry Kasparov have pointed to Sindarov’s red-hot form, even suggesting the Uzbek could start as favourite in their upcoming title clash.

Carlsen, in particular, didn’t hold back, highlighting Gukesh’s “very obvious weaknesses."

But Anand sees it differently.

“Everyone will look at you differently, and everyone secretly covets your title," the veteran fired.

But Anand’s advice also went beyond just blocking out criticism and more into appreciating the present.

“I think you will not appreciate the world championship till you lose it… then you’ll suddenly think, ‘Did I really complain about these things?’"

And the best way to shut everyone up?

“Nothing answers every doubt expressed about you like a good result."

Sindarov will face Gukesh later this year in what is set to be the youngest World Championship match in history.

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