look news india
Chennai, July 5 (HS). R. Praggnanandhaa is now a well-known name in the Indian and international chess circuit. The 18-year-old player, who is in Romania for the Superbet Classical tournament, is steadily rising in fame and stature. He finished behind Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura in the Norway Chess Tournament held in Stavanger but it was another golden chapter in his illustrious career.
Praggnanandhaa's first win over world number-1 Magnus Carlsen in classical chess held in Norway caught everyone's attention. Interestingly, during the closing ceremony, Carlsen revealed that his loss to Praggnanandhaa was actually the most memorable match of the tournament for him.
Speaking on his relationship with the world champion, Praggnanandhaa said through a press release that there is no rivalry between him and Magnus Carlsen. He respects them because they bring out the best in each other.
“Whenever we play against each other, the matches become interesting because we both enjoy being in that position, so we don’t have any problem with it. In fact, I think that is the reason why our matches become so interesting,” Praggnanandhaa said.
The Chennai-born praised Carlsen and said, “Magnus said during the closing ceremony that his match against me was memorable because after that he has become a different player. He won three games in a row in the classical, which is very difficult and very important in this tournament and this format; so overall he played quite well except that game.”
In Norway, Praggnanandhaa won 2 matches, lost 1 and drew 7. Apart from this, he won three Armageddons. He said that he is happy with his performance but he feels that there is scope for improvement.
Praggnanandhaa said, “I performed quite well. I won two classical games against Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana, which was good. I think I could have put a little more pressure in other matches. I don't think I gave my best in all the matches. However, I will have to improve on this in future tournaments, but overall I think I have performed at a high level.”
As Paris Olympics 2024 approaches, Praggnanandhaa said, “I wish the Indian contingent all the best. We are all excited for you. I went to the Asian Games for the first time (in 2023). And the feeling was completely different. If chess reaches the Olympics one day, I will be very happy. This year we have the Chess Olympiad, so I am excited for that. It is an exciting period for chess.”
Praggnanandhaa, who won a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, expressed gratitude for the support he received through the Adani Group's #GarvHai program. He believes it was instrumental in his and other athletes' journey.
Praggnanandhaa said, “Right now, India is doing quite well in chess. With its growing popularity, we see more people following the sport. Many people who had drifted away from it are now reconnecting with it, so that is a good thing. The interest of corporates like the Adani Group in chess will definitely play a key role in its revival by promoting players, and I really hope this effort continues.”