Gukesh Dommaraju Holds GM Abdusattorov to a Draw in Thrilling Tata Steel Chess Masters Encounter

In a thrilling showdown at the Tata Steel Chess Masters 2025, newly-crowned world chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju showcased his resilience by salvaging a draw against his fierce rival, GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov, in a nail-biting six-hour encounter in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands.

Abdusattorov, who had been dominating the tournament with his sharp moves, took an early advantage in the game, leaving Gukesh struggling to keep up. Even former world champion Magnus Carlsen, providing commentary for Chess24, criticized Gukesh’s strategy at one point, calling it a “spectacular failure.”

However, Gukesh managed to turn the tables and fight back, impressing both fans and critics alike with his tenacity and defensive skills. Despite being under immense pressure for most of the match, Gukesh held his ground and secured a crucial half point, extending his streak of surviving difficult positions.

The intense rivalry between the two young grandmasters added an extra layer of drama to the game, with tensions running high from the start. The history between Gukesh and Abdusattorov, dating back to the 2022 Chennai Olympiad, only fueled the intensity of their clash in Wijk aan Zee.

Reflecting on his performance, Gukesh acknowledged his struggles early on but praised Abdusattorov’s playstyle, calling him one of the most promising players in the world. Despite his disappointment at not converting his advantage, Abdusattorov remains in the lead, tied with GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, while Gukesh continues to be a strong contender as the tournament reaches its final stages.

With the stakes high and the competition fierce, chess enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting the next moves in this thrilling tournament.