New Delhi: Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa scripted a historic achievement on Friday by becoming the first Indian player to win the prestigious Norway Chess title.
The 20 year old secured the landmark victory after defeating Vincent Keymer in the final round. Entering the day in third place with 15 points, Praggnanandhaa delivered when it mattered most, earning three crucial points from a classical win to finish the tournament on 18 points and claim the title.
The triumph marks a significant milestone in Indian chess, as even legendary former world champion Viswanathan Anand and reigning world champion D Gukesh had never won the tournament since its inception in 2013.
Playing in Norway Chess for only the second time, Praggnanandhaa overcame a slow start before producing a strong finish in the elite six player competition. One of the defining moments of his campaign was defeating world number one Magnus Carlsen twice in classical chess, a rare feat that highlighted his resilience and growing stature in the sport.
The final round unfolded dramatically as American Grandmaster Wesley So, who began the day as the leader, was held to a draw by Alireza Firouzja in their classical game. The result forced an Armageddon tie break, creating an opportunity for Praggnanandhaa to move ahead with a victory over Keymer.
Although Wesley So won the tie break and added 1.5 points to finish on 17, it was not enough to catch Praggnanandhaa, whose total of 18 points secured the championship. Firouzja ended the event in third place with 15.5 points.
Meanwhile, Gukesh’s campaign ended on a disappointing note. The world champion remained out of title contention and suffered a final round defeat to Carlsen, who finished fifth overall despite ending the tournament with a classical victory.
Praggnanandhaa’s breakthrough victory further strengthens India’s growing influence in world chess and adds another remarkable chapter to the country’s rich legacy in the sport.
