D Gukesh responds boldly after Magnus Carlsen’s ‘Optimistic, doesn’t Bluff’ remark!

D Gukesh has been unstoppable at the 2025 Tata Steel Chess Masters in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. The defending champion has dominated the tournament and silenced critics, particularly Magnus Carlsen. Carlsen, who questioned Gukesh’s victory over Ding Liren in the World Championship last month, has recently toned down his comments. Gukesh’s rise continues to impress, as he holds the lead with 7.6/10 points, half a point ahead of Nodirbek Abdusattorov in second.

After defeating GM Max Warmerdam, Gukesh responded to Carlsen’s recent remark about him being “very optimistic” and “not bluffing.” Gukesh laughed and clarified, “Optimistic for sure, but I also bluff.” He explained that it depends on the position and opponent. While not a frequent bluffer, he acknowledged using it strategically in the game.

R Praggnanandhaa, a point behind Gukesh, is also in strong form, following his win against Vladimir Fedoseev. Fabiano Caruana, the pre-tournament favorite, had his winning hopes dashed when Pentala Harikrishna managed to escape in a rook endgame. After Round 10, Gukesh led the standings, with Abdusattorov and Praggnanandhaa trailing closely. Fedoseev, Caruana, Wei Yi, and Anish Giri follow in the rankings, while Arjun Erigaisi, previously India’s No. 1, struggles near the bottom.