Shavkat Mirziyoyev awards Javokhir Sindorov

A ceremonial event honoring Javokhir Sindorov, winner of the FIDE Candidates Tournament, was held on April 17 with the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, according to the presidential press service.

For the first time in the history of Uzbek chess, Javokhir Sindorov won the Candidates Tournament, achieving a truly historic result.

During the event, it was noted that Sindorov demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the competition, competing against the world’s strongest grandmasters and showing resilience, strong will, and intellectual superiority in each match.

“His unbeaten run, scoring 10 points in 14 games, and setting records in both points and number of wins represent a rare and remarkable achievement in the world of chess,” the statement said.

Addressing the ceremony, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev once again warmly congratulated Sindorov on his historic victory, emphasizing that it represents a triumph for the entire nation and for the “New Uzbekistan.”

“Of course, no achievement comes by itself. Behind this success are years of hard work, experience gained from childhood, strong determination, iron discipline, and, of course, the guidance of teachers and coaches, as well as the support and blessings of family. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to your grandparents, parents, teachers, and mentors who raised and supported such a talented son of Uzbekistan,” the president said.

It was also highlighted that during the tournament, Javokhir Sindorov displayed qualities characteristic of the Uzbek people, including determination, confidence, deep thinking, and patience. His composed and courageous performances against top grandmasters from India, the United States, China, the Netherlands, Germany, and Russia were particularly noted.

The president emphasized that Sindorov’s achievement is a practical result of the consistent attention and support given to sports, including chess, in Uzbekistan.

“Today, the emergence of such determined and talented young champions in New Uzbekistan is a source of great pride for all of us. The fact that two of the world’s top five chess players are from Uzbekistan demonstrates the growing strength and prestige of our national chess school. This will serve as strong motivation for thousands of talented young people and aspiring chess players,” the statement said.

The ceremony also addressed Sindorov’s upcoming challenges, expressing confidence in his ability to compete достойно for the world chess crown and once again demonstrate the strength and reputation of the Uzbek chess school on the global stage. It was also noted that high expectations are placed on his performance at the 46th Chess Olympiad, scheduled to be held in Samarkand this September.

During the event, a presidential decree awarding Javokhir Sindorov the “Mehnat Shuhrati” (Labor Glory) Order was read out, recognizing his significant contribution to promoting chess, particularly among youth, fostering national pride and patriotism, and achieving record results at the FIDE Candidates Tournament in Cyprus.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev then formally presented the award.

In response, the grandmaster expressed his deep gratitude to the president for the continued support for youth and sports development, the opportunities created, and the high recognition and trust shown to him.