Indian Chess Players Shine in Latest FIDE Rankings: Gukesh Reaches Career Best, Praggnanandhaa Enters Top 10

In a groundbreaking achievement for Indian chess, the latest FIDE rankings have shown a significant rise for two young champions. D Gukesh, the reigning world champion, has reached a new career-best ranking of third place globally, while R Praggnanandhaa has re-entered the top super-elite ranking for top 10 athletes.

With these developments, India now boasts three players in the FIDE Top 10, the most for any country. Alongside Gukesh at 3rd place, Arjun Erigaisi has secured the 5th spot, and Praggnanandhaa has claimed the 8th position.

Gukesh’s stellar performance can be attributed to his recent victory over China’s Ding Liren in the World Championship event, where he claimed the world championship trophy. Following this triumph, Gukesh crossed the 2787 mark by earning 10 points. His second-place finish in the Tata Steel Masters in Wijk aan Zee further solidified his position in the rankings.

On the other hand, Praggnanandhaa’s return to the top 10 comes after impressive wins in the Tata Steel Masters and the Prague Masters. With a rating of 2758, he has climbed to the 8th spot, marking a significant improvement since July 2024.

Meanwhile, in the women’s category, Koneru Humpy leads the Indian contingent with a 6th rank in the rating list. R Vaishali and Harika Dronavalli follow closely in the 14th and 16th positions, respectively.

These latest rankings showcase the growing dominance of Indian chess on the global stage, with young talents making their mark and elevating the country’s standing in the chess world.