Praggnanandhaa Reflects on 2024: Hoped for a Turning Point

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CHENNAI: Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa wrapped up 2024 with some unfulfilled goals but quickly turned the page to begin 2025 with a remarkable achievement. He triumphed over newly crowned world champion D Gukesh in a thrilling tie-breaker to capture his first-ever Tata Steel Chess title in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. This win made him only the second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to secure the prestigious title.

The 19-year-old faced some setbacks in 2024, finishing fifth at the Candidates Tournament after a strong runner-up showing at the 2023 World Cup. Despite these challenges, he played a pivotal role in helping India win gold at the Budapest Chess Olympiad. His defeat to Wesley So in the penultimate round ended India’s unbeaten streak in the Open section.

Reflecting on his Tata Steel victory, Pragg shared, “It feels incredible, especially after a difficult finish to 2024. I was determined to do well in this tournament and worked closely with my coach RB Ramesh sir. I’m happy my hard work paid off, and it’s an amazing way to begin the year.” Upon his return to Chennai, he was warmly greeted by officials from the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT).

His victory also showcased the strength of Indian chess, as his Olympiad teammates played a crucial role. Arjun Erigaisi’s final-round win over Gukesh forced a tie-break, while Pentala Harikrishna’s draw with Nodirbek Abdusattorov prevented the Uzbek GM from reaching the playoffs.

Pragg acknowledged the influence of his fellow Indian chess stars in pushing him forward. “Watching Gukesh win the World Championship and Arjun Erigaisi cross 2800 Elo was inspiring. But beyond that, I wasn’t satisfied with my own game, and I knew I could do better. That determination kept me going,” he said.

With this victory, Pragg gained 25 circuit points, placing him second on the 2025 FIDE circuit leaderboard—a crucial step toward qualifying for the Candidates Tournament. However, he remains focused on the bigger picture. “It’s just the beginning of the year. Major events like the World Cup and Grand Swiss are coming up, and they are essential for Candidates’ qualification. This win boosts my confidence, but there’s still a long journey ahead.”

Chennai’s Chess Dominance on Display
The Tata Steel Chess final saw an intense battle between two rising stars from Chennai, underscoring the city’s increasing prominence in the global chess scene. “In the end, the title stays in Chennai, and that’s something to be proud of. It was truly special to have two Chennai boys in the final. A big congratulations to Gukesh—he played brilliantly. After the match, we shared a few thoughts about our game, but both of us were drained after such a grueling contest,” Pragg remarked.

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