Praggnanandhaa Makes History, Wins First Grand Chess Tour Title
St Louis, August 28: Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa scripted history on Thursday by defeating American Fabiano Caruana 15-13 in a thrilling final to win his maiden Grand Chess Tour title. With the victory, Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian player to lift the prestigious title.
The 21-year-old Chennai-born grandmaster began the final day six points behind Caruana at the Saint Louis Chess Club. However, he produced a stunning turnaround, winning both rapid games before holding his nerve in the blitz section to seal the championship.
Praggnanandhaa also took home a USD 200,000 winner's prize.
Remarkable Comeback in Rapid
Praggnanandhaa made the biggest move of his comeback in the rapid section, winning both games against Caruana. The victories gave him enough points to overturn the six-point deficit and establish a two-point lead going into the blitz games.
Speaking to Chess.com after the win, Praggnanandhaa admitted that he had not expected to have many chances at the start of the day.
He said getting two wins against Caruana in rapid was particularly important for his chances of winning the title.
Caruana Fights Back in Blitz
The battle remained intense in the blitz section. The opening game ended in a draw before Caruana won the second game to level the overall score at 12-12.
Praggnanandhaa responded immediately, winning the third blitz game to restore his two-point advantage at 14-12.
The final game carried enormous significance. A win for Caruana would have forced two additional games, followed by an Armageddon tie-break if required.
Praggnanandhaa, however, held on for a draw, securing the 15-13 victory and completing one of the biggest comebacks of his career.
First Indian to Win Grand Chess Tour
The Grand Chess Tour congratulated Praggnanandhaa on social media following his historic victory, praising his comeback and determination in the final.
The title also guarantees Praggnanandhaa a place in next year's Grand Chess Tour. Caruana and American Grandmaster Wesley So, who finished third after defeating Germany's Vincent Keymer 18-12, also secured spots for the next edition.
Another Major Milestone in a Breakthrough Year
The Grand Chess Tour triumph adds to what has already been a remarkable year for Praggnanandhaa.
Earlier this year, he became the first Indian to win the Norway Chess title, where he also defeated world No. 1 and tournament favourite Magnus Carlsen twice.
Mentored by five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, Praggnanandhaa's latest achievement further strengthens his position among India's leading chess players.
