Zagreb: D Gukesh Returns to Major Chess Events at the Rapid and Blitz Tournament

World champion D Gukesh may have stepped back from classical chess, but he’s set to face top competitors at the Zagreb Rapid and Blitz Tournament, part of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour.

Gukesh Set to Shine at Zagreb Rapid and Blitz Tournament

Zagreb, Croatia – The chess world is abuzz as reigning world champion D Gukesh prepares to make his mark at the highly anticipated Zagreb Rapid and Blitz Tournament, kicking off this Wednesday. Although Gukesh has taken a sabbatical from classical chess, his commitment to major events remains unwavering, and he is ready to face off against some of the globe’s top players.

This tournament is part of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT), which serves as a premier platform for elite chess competitions. The Zagreb event marks the third installment of the GCT this year, with three more tournaments lined up, promising an exciting season for chess enthusiasts.

Joining Gukesh in the competition is Indian prodigy R Praggnanandhaa, who recently clinched victory at the Norway Chess tournament, triumphing over none other than world number one Magnus Carlsen. Praggnanandhaa’s impressive performance has set high expectations as he enters the rapid and blitz formats.

The tournament will feature a total of nine rounds of rapid chess, followed by 18 rounds of blitz. Each rapid victory will earn players two points, while a draw will yield one point. In blitz, a win is worth one point, and a draw awards half a point.

Despite stepping back from classical events, Gukesh has committed to participating in the rapid and blitz sections as a wild card. His decision comes amid speculation about his recent performances and the upcoming title defense against Javokhir Sindarov later this year.

For Praggnanandhaa, the challenge lies in adapting to the faster-paced games, having showcased his strategic prowess in Norway. He made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious tournament, and fans are eager to see if he can replicate that success in Zagreb.

The tournament also features a formidable lineup, including Vincent Keymer from Germany, Anish Giri from the Netherlands, and Alireza Firouzja from France, all of whom are considered strong contenders. French chess star Maxime Vachier-Lagrave adds to the competitive mix, while Jorden van Foreest joins as a last-minute participant.

Completing the impressive roster are Nodribek Abdusattorov from Uzbekistan, Ivan Saric from Serbia, and Deac Bogdan-Daniel from Romania, ensuring that chess fans will be glued to their screens for the duration of this thrilling event.

As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa, two of India’s brightest chess talents, as they aim to leave their mark on the international stage.