As he prepares for the competition, Abdusattorov is particularly looking forward to facing the reigning World Champion, although he emphasizes that his focus extends beyond just that match. “This tournament is very short. In some rounds, anything can happen, because it’s a very young field,” he remarked during a recent interview. His insights reflect the unpredictable nature of the tournament, which features a lineup of emerging talents.
Support for a Fellow Competitor
In recent months, Abdusattorov has taken a step back from the limelight, as his compatriot Javokhir Sindarov has garnered attention for his impressive victory at the World Cup in Goa last year. Sindarov's success continued as he dominated the Candidates tournament, setting the stage for a World Championship match against Gukesh. Abdusattorov has committed to supporting Sindarov in his preparations for this significant title clash. “I had joined his training camp for a week before the Candidates. For the upcoming World Championship match, for sure, I will be part of his team. I will be training with him. From my perspective, he’s my friend, he’s close to me, and I will do my best to help him,” he stated.
While it is not typical for chess players to form friendships with their rivals, the bond between Abdusattorov and Sindarov stands out. Their camaraderie could prove vital as Uzbekistan aims for gold in the upcoming Olympiad, which will take place in their home city of Samarkand. The collaboration between these two young stars highlights a new era of teamwork and support within the competitive chess landscape.
