As the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia 2025 kicks off in Zagreb, the stage is set for a compelling rematch between world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and reigning classical world champion D. Gukesh—and Carlsen has wasted no time in stoking the fire.
Speaking at the pre-tournament press conference, Carlsen made blunt and pointed remarks, questioning Gukesh’s credentials in faster time formats like rapid and blitz.
“Gukesh played quite well here last time,” Carlsen acknowledged. “But it remains to be proven that he’s one of the best players in this format… I will approach it as if I’m playing one of the presumably weaker players.”
A Rivalry Rekindled
The comments follow their high-voltage encounter at Norway Chess 2025, where Gukesh stunned Carlsen in a classical game, overturning a worse position to claim victory. Carlsen’s visibly emotional reaction—thumping the table and scattering pieces—went viral, marking one of his rare public outbursts and underscoring how deeply the loss stung.
But as the Grand Chess Tour shifts to rapid and blitz formats—domains where Carlsen has reigned supreme—he seems intent on reclaiming control of the narrative. He even dismissed Gukesh’s chances with a calculated confidence:
“We have a very, very strong field. Gukesh hasn’t done anything to indicate that he’s going to do well in such a tournament.”
A New Test for the World Champion
D. Gukesh, at just 18, is the youngest classical world champion in history, but he faces a different challenge in Zagreb. Rapid and blitz demand quick instinct, sharp nerves, and experience—qualities Carlsen believes Gukesh has yet to fully prove in these formats.
The two are scheduled to face each other three times between July 3 and July 6—once in rapid, twice in blitz. Their first clash on July 3 will be their first meeting since that unforgettable moment in Stavanger.
Alongside Gukesh will be Praggnanandhaa R, the Bucharest leg winner and one of the circuit’s most in-form players. The Indian contingent arrives in Zagreb with momentum but under pressure to carry it into shorter formats.
Carlsen Still the Standard
While Gukesh holds the classical crown, Carlsen remains the benchmark—especially in rapid and blitz, where he has long been regarded as near-invincible. When asked about the top contenders, he placed Alireza Firouzja second—notably omitting Gukesh from his shortlist.
“If I’m in good shape, it will take something special to beat me,” Carlsen asserted with typical assurance.
A Reminder from Kasparov
On the eve of the event, chess legend Garry Kasparov added a note of wisdom—one that seemed aimed at Gukesh and the younger generation navigating new-found fame and expectations.
“The moment you stop thinking about improving, it’s over… The main opponent is your own excellence.”
The Bigger Battle
The SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz isn’t just about points on the Grand Chess Tour—it’s a test of ego, evolution, and legacy. For Carlsen, it’s about reaffirming dominance. For Gukesh, it’s about proving he belongs at the very top—even in formats where he’s still finding his footing.
As the pieces begin to move in Zagreb, all eyes will be on whether Carlsen’s confidence or Gukesh’s quiet determination wins the day.
