In a stunning upset that has captured the attention of chess enthusiasts globally, Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa has defeated World Champion D. Gukesh in the Tata Steel Masters 2025. This remarkable victory not only showcases Praggnanandhaa’s exceptional skills but also positions him as a rising star in the world of chess. In this article, we delve into the life and achievements of R. Praggnanandhaa, exploring how a young talent has made waves by outsmarting some of the best players, including World Champion Magnus Carlsen.
Who is R. Praggnanandhaa?
R. Praggnanandhaa, a prodigious talent in the world of chess, faced off against D. Gukesh on February 2 in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. At just 19 years old, Praggnanandhaa clinched victory in a nail-biting tiebreaker match against the 18-year-old reigning World Champion. Born on August 10, 2005, in Chennai, India, he is the son of Ramesh Babu and Nagalakshmi, who have both played pivotal roles in his chess journey.
Motivated by His Sister
Praggnanandhaa was introduced to chess at the tender age of three, thanks to the encouragement from his elder sister, R. Vaishali, who is also a Grandmaster. This sisterly motivation has played a significant part in his development as a player. Supported wholeheartedly by his parents, Praggnanandhaa’s mother often travels with him to tournaments, and if she cannot, she avidly watches his matches from home.
A Historic Win Against Carlsen
At only 19 years old, Praggnanandhaa has already made headlines by defeating World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen at the age of 16. He triumphed over Carlsen during an online rapid chess tournament, the Airthings Masters, in 2022, further solidifying his reputation. Recently, he bested Carlsen again in a classical game at the Norway Chess Tournament in Stavanger 2024, showcasing his prowess against the world’s best.
Achievements and Titles
Praggnanandhaa has an impressive list of accomplishments at a young age. He became the World Youth Chess Champion in the under-8 category in 2013 and followed it up by winning the under-10 title in 2015. In 2023, he reached the finals of the Chess World Cup, making him the second Indian after the legendary Vishwanathan Anand to accomplish such a feat. His continued success not only highlights his skill but also paves the way for future generations of chess players in India.
Future Prospects
The future looks bright for R. Praggnanandhaa as he continues to challenge the elite ranks of chess. His tactical brilliance and strategic understanding of the game suggest that he will be a formidable player for years to come. With his recent victory over D. Gukesh, the chess world eagerly anticipates the next chapters in this young Grandmaster’s career.
As we witness his remarkable journey, it becomes clear that R. Praggnanandhaa is not just a rising star; he is poised to become one of the significant figures in the world of chess, inspiring many young minds along the way.