Javokhir Sindarov: “Games Against Magnus Always Bring Special Motivation”

In an exclusive interview with Kursiv Uzbekistan, the young grandmaster spoke about his emotions ahead of the Candidates Tournament, his plans for the future, and key games against the world’s strongest players.

— You won the World Cup in India and became the youngest champion in history. How did you maintain a psychological edge in the final against Wei Yi?

— Honestly, the tournament was extremely difficult and the opponents were very strong. But I came into the competition in excellent form, so I tried to stay calm and play my best chess until the very end.

In the final games I felt free. By that time I had already secured a place in the Candidates Tournament and I told myself: «You do not play in a final every day. You need to give everything in these games so you have no regrets afterwards.» I think that is what produced the result.

— Were there moments when you felt the risk of defeat very strongly? How do you cope with that pressure?

— Of course, the fear of losing is always present during a tournament. One loss and you are out. But thanks to good preparation I had strong confidence in myself, and that helped me cope with the pressure.

— Who stands behind your success: coaches, analysts, family?

— There are many people: my family, close ones, mentors. Each has made their contribution. I am sincerely grateful to everyone.

— How financially viable is it to be a professional chess player in Uzbekistan today?

— Like any sport, chess has its challenges. But if you overcome them and reach a certain level, big opportunities open up. In Uzbekistan, all the conditions have been created for chess. I am very grateful to the country’s leadership and the Chess Federation for their support.

— Does prize money at major tournaments cover all a player’s expenses such as travel, coaches and preparation?

— It is not just about taking part, but about winning. If your rating is 2700 or above, a stable income becomes possible. But without support, either from sponsors or the state, it is extremely difficult to ensure high-quality preparation with coaches.

— How much does a player’s personal brand affect income and invitations to prestigious tournaments?

— First and foremost, rating decides everything. Then organisers pay attention to age, participation in major tournaments, and the player’s overall status. Regular play in super-tournaments is the key to a stable income.

— Does strategic thinking in chess help you make life decisions?

— It is hard to answer this clearly. I think not directly, not very strongly.

— At the tournament in Cape Town you beat Magnus Carlsen. Did you use any special tactics against him?

— Games against Magnus always bring special motivation. In every match with him I try to fight to the fullest and I learn a lot. Just in 2025 I beat him several times and I think in 2026 there will be even more such victories.

— You have qualified for the 2026 Candidates Tournament. Is this the most important tournament of your career?

— I do not limit my career to one tournament. But, of course, for the current year it is the most important competition. I have already begun serious preparation and, if it is God’s will, I will try to arrive at the tournament in the best possible shape and win.