Hans Moke Niemann shared his opinion on Ding Liren, Javokhir Sindarov, and Gukesh Dommaraju. Niemann believes that Ding and Gukesh were never the best players in the world, and reflects on the outcome of the World Championship Match 2026.

Hans Moke Niemann

Hans Moke Niemann

American GM

“The main reason why we’ve seen Ding and Gukesh do poorly is that they were never the best players in the world. Not even close to it.

The Candidates is only 14 games and you have to be first among eight players. The difference between the top players is so small, and preparation plays such a large role. When the sample size is so small, it is going to be more random.

But there is no reason to speculate about who is deserving to play in the World Championship match or not. Sindarov won the Candidates Tournament, so why is he not deserving?

If Gukesh starts well in the Match, regains his confidence and takes control, his prime form could return. But if he starts poorly, it is just going to be a reminder of all the bad results.

In one match of 14 games, anything can happen.”

The FIDE World Championship 2026 is the crowning match to determine the World Champion. Match features defending Champion Gukesh Dommaraju and Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov, the winner of the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. The location and date of the match will be announced by FIDE later this year.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE