Indian chess player R Praggnanandhaa secured a historic victory in the FIDE World Cup semifinals. Facing off against world No.3 Fabiano Caruana of the USA, Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious after an intense game that was ended with a score of 3.5-2.5 in his favor. This victory marks a significant milestone for both Praggnanandhaa and Indian chess.
The win is particularly noteworthy for India, as Praggnanandhaa becomes the first Indian player in over two decades to advance to the final of the Chess World Cup. The last Indian to achieve this feat was the legendary Viswanathan Anand. He has clinched the World Cup win twice, one in 2000 and then in 2002. Praggnanandhaa’s remarkable journey to the final underscores the rising prominence of Indian chess players on the global stage.
Praggnanandhaa’s journey to the final has been characterized by his exceptional strategic insights, tactical brilliance, and playing under pressure. His ability to outplay opponents has consistently set him as a formidable player. By defeating a player of Fabiano Caruana’s caliber, Praggnanandhaa has solidified his position as a rising star in the world of chess.