Why Did Chess Sensation D Gukesh Suddenly Bail on Vegas? 

By Jiya Bhatt

D Gukesh was invited to the Las Vegas leg of the inaugural Freestyle Grand Slam Tour but decided NOT to participate.

By Jiya Bhatt

By Jiya Bhatt

His fellow Indian grandmasters—R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and Vidit Gujrathi—are competing in the event.

By Jiya Bhatt

Gukesh’s withdrawal comes after his recent classical win over Magnus Carlsen at Norway Chess.

By Jiya Bhatt

He previously played in the Paris leg of the Freestyle Tour but finished ninth overall.

By Jiya Bhatt

Mental and physical exhaustion was cited as the main reason for his withdrawal.

By Jiya Bhatt

Jan Jenric Buettner, CEO of the Freestyle Tour, confirmed Gukesh wanted to rest after a tough schedule.

By Jiya Bhatt

Gukesh is focusing on the upcoming Sinquefield Cup, where he currently RANKS 5th in the Grand Chess Tour standings.