Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has scored a sensational win against world number one Magnus Carlsen at the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Las Vegas. The 19-year-old Indian Grandmaster played with precision, bringing Carlsen’s run to a dramatic halt in a rapid-format clash that lasted just 39 moves. Carlsen, famed for his deep resourcefulness, was left with no option but to resign as Praggnanandhaa’s accuracy proved too strong in the closing stages.

This memorable victory stamps Praggnanandhaa’s name among the global elite, especially as he now has wins over Carlsen in Classical, Rapid, and Blitz chess. More than a personal milestone, the triumph adds to a series of remarkable Indian achievements at the highest levels of the sport.

Gukesh-Carlsen Rivalry

It is important to note that this was not Carlsen’s first major disappointment against an Indian youngster. Earlier, Dommaraju Gukesh had delivered a stunning defeat to Carlsen in classical chess, marking a turning point for both players’ careers. The clash was not just notable for the result, but also for Carlsen’s frustrated reaction—he was visibly upset, reportedly banging his fist on the table and exiting the hall swiftly after the loss.

Adding to the tension, Carlsen had previously described Gukesh as a “weak player” in rapid and blitz formats, stating that he would treat him as one of the lesser competitors. However, Gukesh’s continued strong performances—including victories against Carlsen—prompted a change in tune from the Norwegian, who later commended the teenager for his impressive run and resilience.

The backdrop of Gukesh’s rivalry with Carlsen casts Praggnanandhaa’s achievement in a new light. It highlights an emerging trend: Indian youngsters are challenging the world’s best with remarkable poise and making their mark on the global stage.

The rise of both Praggnanandhaa and Gukesh underscores a special moment for Indian chess. With their ability to unsettle even the most legendary names, a new generation of Indian Grandmasters is driving the sport to new heights and giving fans stories of drama, rivalry, and sporting excellence to celebrate.

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