In a monumental achievement for Indian chess, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, the 19-year-old Grandmaster from Chennai, won the 2025 FIDE Candidates Tournament held in Madrid, Spain, securing his place in the upcoming World Chess Championship match against reigning champion Magnus Carlsen.

Praggnanandhaa finished the tournament with 9.5 points out of 14, narrowly edging out experienced players like Fabiano Caruana and Ian Nepomniachtchi. His calm composure, deep calculations, and fearless playing style captivated the chess world and firmly established him as India’s next World Champion hopeful.

The Road to the World Championship

Pragg’s tournament performance was a blend of strategic brilliance and youthful confidence. Highlights included a stunning win over Hikaru Nakamura with the black pieces in Round 8, and a critical draw against Ding Liren in Round 13 that virtually sealed his top position.

He played aggressively when needed and defended resourcefully under pressure, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. Analysts praised his preparation, creativity in the opening phase, and exceptional endgame technique.

Mentorship and Preparation

The young prodigy was mentored by Grandmaster RB Ramesh, whose structured training approach and psychological coaching helped Pragg manage the intense pressure of elite competition. Their preparation included AI-based opening analysis, rigorous physical fitness training, and participation in top-tier events leading up to the Candidates.

Support from the All India Chess Federation and the Sports Authority of India also played a crucial role in providing access to international competition and resources.

National Reaction

India celebrated the historic win with enormous pride. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Praggnanandhaa’s win “a defining moment for Indian chess.” The Tamil Nadu government announced a ₹2 crore cash prize and plans to establish a chess academy in his name.

Social media lit up with the hashtags #PraggWinsCandidates and #NextWorldChampion, with tributes pouring in from chess legends, sports icons, and fans around the globe.

Changing the Chess Landscape in India

Praggnanandhaa’s rise is symbolic of India’s chess revolution. With over 80 Grandmasters and a thriving youth circuit, India has become a global chess superpower. His success has ignited further interest in the sport, with a surge in enrollments at chess academies and online platforms.

Major Indian sponsors have now stepped up to support chess financially, and a national televised chess league is under consideration to build on this momentum.

The Carlsen Showdown: A New Era Begins

The upcoming FIDE World Chess Championship 2026 between Praggnanandhaa and Carlsen is already being billed as a clash of generations. While Carlsen, a five-time world champion, remains the favorite, Pragg’s fearless approach and deep preparation make him a serious contender.

The match is expected to take place in Dubai, with millions of viewers anticipated from around the world. Indian fans are hopeful for a repeat of Vishy Anand’s glory days, this time with a teenage sensation at the helm.

Conclusion

Praggnanandhaa’s triumph at the 2025 Candidates Tournament marks a new chapter in Indian chess history. As he prepares to challenge Magnus Carlsen for the world title, the entire nation—and chess world—waits in eager anticipation.