Fabiano Caruana Defeats R Praggnanandhaa at Super Chess Classic, Tightening Title Race with Two Rounds Remaining

Fabiano Caruana Triumphs Over R Praggnanandhaa at Super Chess Classic, Title Race Heats Up

Bucharest, Romania – May 22, 2026

In a thrilling seventh round of the Super Chess Classic, Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa faced his first defeat of the tournament, succumbing to the formidable Fabiano Caruana of the United States. This pivotal match has tightened the title race, with Caruana now joining Jorden Van Foreest and Vincent Keymer at the top of the leaderboard, all tied at 4.5 points.

The day unfolded dramatically as Van Foreest capitalized on the withdrawal of French star Alireza Firouzja, while Uzbek challenger Javokhir Sindarov delivered a stunning victory over overnight leader Keymer. With just two rounds remaining, the competition is fiercer than ever, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Praggnanandhaa, who had been a strong contender, now finds himself trailing behind with 3.5 points, alongside Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Wesley So, and Sindarov. Deac Bogdan-Daniel sits at 2.5 points, further complicating the standings.

How R Praggnanandhaa Lost

In a match that began with the Queen’s pawn, Praggnanandhaa opted for the Ragozin variation of the Queen’s Gambit Declined, fully aware that a win was crucial to keep his title hopes alive. However, Caruana showcased his tactical prowess, navigating the complex middlegame with remarkable precision.

The American Grandmaster executed a series of resourceful moves that left Praggnanandhaa on the defensive, culminating in a decisive attack on the white king that proved insurmountable. The game concluded in just 33 moves, marking a significant moment in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Sindarov’s victory over Keymer was equally impressive. The Uzbek player, playing with the white pieces, outmaneuvered Keymer, who struggled to find counterplay after a pawn sacrifice. Sindarov capitalized on the opportunities presented, sealing his win in 40 moves.

With a total prize pool of USD 375,000, including USD 100,000 for the champion, Praggnanandhaa still has a slim chance of finishing on the podium. However, the battle for the title now appears to be a contest among the top four players.

Results After Round 7

• Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (FRA, 3.5) drew with Deac Bogdan-Daniel (ROU, 2.5)
• R Praggnanandhaa (IND, 3.5) lost to Fabiano Caruana (USA, 4.5)
• Javokhir Sindarov (UZB, 3.5) beat Vincent Keymer (GER, 4.5)
• Alireza Firouzja (FRA, 1) gave a walkover to Jorden Van Foreest (NED, 4.5)
• Anish Giri (NED, 3) drew with Wesley So (USA, 3.5)

As the tournament approaches its climax, chess enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the final rounds, where every move could shift the balance of power in this high-stakes competition.