Indian Chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa Defeats Magnus Carlsen in Norway Chess Tournament

Indian Chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made headlines in the chess world as he defeated the reigning world champion Magnus Carlsen for the first time in the classical format at the Norway chess tournament. This victory also propelled Praggnanandhaa to the sole lead in the tournament.

Classical chess, also known as slow chess, provides players with ample time to strategize and make their moves. Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa had previously drawn in their three encounters in this format. However, in their latest match, Carlsen’s risky opening move of not castling may have contributed to his downfall as Praggnanandhaa capitalized on this opportunity and secured a victory.

The 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster, who had previously beaten Carlsen in online and faster versions of the game, now leads the men’s section with 5.5 points, half a point ahead of Fabiano Caruana from the US. Carlsen, currently in third place with 3 points, looks to make a comeback in the tournament.

Praggnanandhaa’s advantage in the game was evident from the beginning with better space control due to the Sicilian Kann opening. As the game progressed, Carlsen’s king found itself in a vulnerable position in the center, allowing Praggnanandhaa to launch a series of strategic moves that ultimately led to his victory in just 37 moves.

In the women’s event, Praggnanandhaa’s sister R Vaishali maintained her lead after defeating Anna Muzychuk in the Armageddon game. With 5.5 points, Vaishali holds a full-point lead over women’s world champion Wenjun Ju of China.

With seven rounds remaining in both sections of the tournament, chess enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating more thrilling matches and upsets in the Norway chess tournament.