India, Nov. 5 -- D Gukesh began his Chess World Cup 2025 campaign on Tuesday, at Resort Rio in Goa. After receiving a bye into the second round, he took on 2025 Junior World Champion GM Kazybek Nogerbek, from Kazakhstan. But the reigning World Champion was held to a draw, with Nogerbek playing with the black pieces.

Gukesh is arguably one of the most popular sports personalities in India currently, especially since beating Ding Liren for the World C'ship crown.

In Goa, he was mobbed by young fans, and he showed his humble side, as he stopped for some fans in the crowd, and signed autographs for them.

2025 has been a shaky year for him, despite winning the World C'ship on December 12 last year.

He had a great month in October 2024, whe...