German GM Vincent Keymer shared his opinion about Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov. Keymer says he and Sindarov play at a similar level, and discusses an alternate outcome for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

Vincent Keymer

Vincent Keymer

German GM

“In terms of results, I have already established myself in the world’s Top 10 Classical chess players. And I expect things to continue like that for some time. You can’t speak of a clear hierarchy right now.

Speaking of the candidate for the crown, Sindarov, he is certainly very strong. But I don’t think he is clearly stronger than Abdusattorov, Arjun, Pragg, Gukesh, or me. At this point, I would put him on the same level as us.

Sindarov could’ve lost that first game at the Candidates Tournament. And if he had lost, he would probably have ended up somewhere in the last three or four places. But he managed to win it and carry that momentum forward.”

Vincent Keymer is World’s No. 6 with a rating of 2767. Vincent did not qualify for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. In May, Keymer won the GCT: Super Chess Classic Romania with a score of 6/9.

Javokhir Sindarov is World’s No. 4 with a rating of 2777. Javokhir won the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 in April and will play in the World Championship match at the end of the year.

Credit: Michal Walusza / Norway Chess