Veteran Grandmaster Ivanchuk Declares Chess as Irreplaceable Pursuit, Assesses Rising Indian Talent

In an exclusive interview, Ukrainian chess legend Vasyl Ivanchuk has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the game, stating there exists 'no serious alternative' to chess for him. The veteran grandmaster, known for his creative and unpredictable style, offered analytical insights into the evolving landscape of international chess, with particular focus on the burgeoning talent from India. Ivanchuk noted that all Indian players possess distinct characteristics, singling out current World Champion Dommaraju Gukesh as 'quite an interesting player,' while also observing a perceived lack of stability in the young champion's performances. Expressing a desire to compete at the highest level, Ivanchuk conveyed his hope to participate in the upcoming FIDE World Cup. He further commended the organizational standards and facilities at recent events in Goa, underscoring the importance of superior infrastructure for elite competition. This commentary from a seasoned competitor provides a measured, authoritative perspective on the current dynamics within professional chess, highlighting both the enduring appeal of the classic game and the shifting power structures as new generations emerge.