Javokhir Sindarov shared his thoughts on Hikaru Nakamura’s strength. Sindarov calls Nakamura one of the strongest players in the world and reflects on their future games against each other at the USA vs. Uzbekistan Match.

Javokhir Sindarov

Javokhir Sindarov

World's No. 4

“It was great to play against Hikaru at the Candidates Tournament. But playing in a team match is a completely new event and a different format.

Hikaru is one of the strongest and most experienced chess players in the world. So, every game against him is a serious challenge.

I don’t think too much about our previous games. My focus is on good play, right decisions at the board and readiness for every game, regardless of the opponent.

If we play several times over these two days, I will just try to be consistent and fight in every game.”

At the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, Javokhir Sindarov won against Hikaru Nakamura once, and they drew once. The USA vs. Uzbekistan Match will be held in Florida from July 26th to 28th. The match will feature Sindarov, Nakamura, Abdusattorov, Caruana, and others.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE