In the sixth round of the Norway Chess 2025 tournament, a remarkable event unfolded as 19-year-old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh achieved his first classical victory over former World Champion Magnus Carlsen. This win was particularly significant, as it marked Gukesh’s inaugural classical triumph against the Norwegian grandmaster, highlighting a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career .
The match was intense, with Carlsen initially holding a dominant position. However, under time pressure, he made a critical blunder, allowing Gukesh to seize the opportunity and turn the game in his favor. Gukesh later reflected on the game, acknowledging the challenging position he was in and attributing his win to perseverance and a bit of luck during the time scramble .
Carlsen’s reaction to the unexpected loss was uncharacteristically emotional; he was seen visibly frustrated, banging his fist on the table before leaving the venue abruptly . This rare display of emotion from the seasoned grandmaster underscored the significance of the upset.
Gukesh’s victory is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the rising prominence of Indian chess on the global stage. Following in the footsteps of compatriot R Praggnanandhaa, who also defeated Carlsen in this prestigious tournament, Gukesh’s win reinforces the emergence of a new generation of Indian chess prodigies making their mark internationally .
This match will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in Gukesh’s career and a significant chapter in the evolving narrative of international chess competition.
