Tamil Nadu CM Honors Chess Prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa for Historic Norway Chess Victory

Tamil Nadu CM Honors Chess Prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa for Historic Norway Triumph

Chennai, October 2, 2023 — In a moment of pride for the state, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay honored chess prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa on Monday, celebrating his remarkable victory at the Norway Chess tournament. The 20-year-old Grandmaster was presented with a cash award of ₹50 lakh, a token of appreciation from the Tamil Nadu Sports Development Authority for his groundbreaking achievement.

Praggnanandhaa made history in Oslo by becoming the first Indian to clinch the prestigious Norway Chess title. His extraordinary campaign included a rare feat: defeating the home favorite and World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen not once, but twice in classical matches, alongside a pivotal victory over reigning World Champion D. Gukesh.

During the felicitation ceremony, CM Vijay praised Praggnanandhaa’s exceptional intellect and composure on the global stage. “Your achievements inspire not just aspiring chess players but all of us,” he remarked, as he handed over the cheque and a commemorative memento to the young champion.

The event was attended by Minister for Public Works and Sports Development Aadhav Arjuna, Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu J. Meghanatha Reddy, I.A.S., Praggnanandhaa’s parents, and several high-ranking government officials.

Despite slipping to No. 16 in the world rankings earlier this year, Praggnanandhaa showcased his resilience in Norway. After starting the tournament in a challenging position, he mounted an impressive comeback, winning four consecutive games, including his second victory over Carlsen and a crucial win against Gukesh. This remarkable streak marked the first of its kind since Carlsen’s own winning run in 2021.

Entering the final round half a point behind Wesley So, Praggnanandhaa faced Vincent Keymer with the white pieces. Seizing the opportunity, he secured a crucial victory that propelled him to the top of the standings, finishing with an impressive 18 points.

As the ceremony concluded, CM Vijay and Praggnanandhaa engaged in a friendly game of chess, symbolizing the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that the young Grandmaster embodies. With his historic win, Praggnanandhaa has not only brought glory to Tamil Nadu but has also etched his name in the annals of chess history, inspiring a new generation of players.