In a captivating display of prowess, Indian chess prodigy Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa ascended to the final of the Chess World Cup 2023, overcoming formidable opponents in his path, only to be edged out in the ultimate showdown by former world champion Magnus Carlsen in Baku on Thursday.
The International Chess Federation lauded Praggnanandhaa’s remarkable journey, commemorating his status as the runner-up of the 2023 FIDE World Cup, and extending heartfelt congratulations to the 18-year-old Indian sensation for his splendid performance throughout the tournament.
Having traversed a challenging route to the final, Praggnanandhaa notably vanquished luminaries such as world number two Hikaru Nakamura and Fabiano Caruana, the esteemed occupant of the third position in the global chess rankings.
Praggnanandhaa’s commendable journey culminated not only in a substantial share of the $1,834,000 prize pool but also in the acquisition of a prestigious silver medal as the inaugural runner-up. This feat also grants him a coveted entry into the forthcoming 2024 FIDE Candidates tournament.
As delineated in the riveting denouement account on the International Chess Federation’s official platform, the Norwegian chess virtuoso Carlsen clinched his inaugural World Cup title by prevailing over Praggnanandhaa in a pair of tie-break encounters.
Following a placid draw in the second game of the finals, Carlsen, who valiantly contested despite his convalescence from food poisoning, outmaneuvered the 18-year-old Indian prodigy in the ensuing tiebreaks. The victor’s triumph was secured in a succinct two tiebreak games, each lasting approximately an hour and a half, as elucidated in the federation’s chronicle.
Indian media reports proudly note that Praggnanandhaa becomes the second Indian chess luminary to ascend to the Chess World Cup final, an achievement previously attained by Viswanathan Anand.
Extending his acclamation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his admiration on social media, asserting, “We laud Praggnanandhaa for his extraordinary display at the FIDE World Cup! His virtuoso skills were on full display as he valiantly challenged the formidable Magnus Carlsen in the climactic encounter. This accomplishment is indeed of immense magnitude. We extend our best wishes for his forthcoming tournaments.”
In the realm of chess, Praggnanandhaa’s indomitable spirit and remarkable journey continue to resonate as a source of inspiration for aspiring players and enthusiasts alike.
