In a spectacular display of chess brilliance at the ongoing FIDE World Cup in Baku, the young and dynamic R Praggnanandhaa has shaken the chess world by defeating none other than the reigning World No. 2, Hikaru Nakamura. Now, he’s locking horns with World No. 3, Fabiano Caruana, in a tantalizing showdown that could propel him to an even more monumental encounter with the ultimate chess titan, World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, in the final.
Talk about taking on the best of the best on the grandest stage! The FIDE World Cup has become a true battleground for Pragg, who has just turned 18 a mere 10 days ago. As he enters a high-stakes tiebreaker against Caruana following a solid draw in Game 2 of their electrifying semifinal clash, anticipation is running high. The tension in the air is palpable, and every move carries the weight of a champion’s ambition.
It was Praggnanandhaa’s unwavering determination in defence that set him apart in this crucial game. Caruana pressed with relentless intensity, perhaps wary of the fire that the young prodigy from Chennai can ignite. Yet, Pragg remained steadfast, unfazed by the mounting pressure. While Caruana engaged in casual conversations and strolls around the arena, Pragg’s laser-sharp focus remained unyielding.
Caruana managed to carve out a path to two connected passed pawns on the king’s side, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. However, Praggnanandhaa held his ground, deploying his rook and knight with precision, and after a thrilling 47-move contest, the players agreed to a hard-fought draw.
The Rapid Realm: Pragg’s Domain of Dominance
Rapid games have emerged as Praggnanandhaa’s forte, a fact that Caruana must be acutely aware of. While Caruana has exhibited remarkable consistency in the classical time-control format, his prowess tends to waver in the rapid arena.
With an ELO rating of 2763 in rapids and 2813 in blitz, Caruana boasts higher ratings than Pragg’s 2645 (rapid) and 2623 (blitz). However, what sets Pragg apart is his ability to conjure storms of brilliance under the pressure of time.
Recent years have seen him in astounding form, especially in shorter formats, a testament to his unparalleled skill. He’s even toppled the mighty Magnus Carlsen not once, not twice, but thrice!
The quarterfinal clash against fellow Indian chess talent Arjun Erigaisi showcased Pragg’s indomitable spirit. In a gripping showdown that spanned eight games without resolution, it was Pragg who emerged victorious in a sudden-death blitz finale.
Carlsen’s Admiration: A True Measure of Pragg’s Brilliance
To truly grasp the magnitude of Pragg’s brilliance, let’s rewind to an unforgettable moment when he outshone the chess galaxy. In a tiebreaker showdown against Hikaru Nakamura, Pragg played with such mastery that even the reigning World Champion Magnus Carlsen couldn’t help but applaud. Stepping away from his own battle to congratulate Pragg, Carlsen shared words of inspiration that surely fuelled the young prodigy’s self-belief.
Carlsen’s admiration for Pragg extends beyond this instance. During the inaugural Global Chess League, where Praggnanandhaa was part of Carlsen’s team – the SG Alpine Warriors – the World Champion credited the young star for their outstanding success. “Pragg has been the absolute star. Not only the fact that he wins games, but the way he wins them. It seems like he wins with class,” Carlsen expressed.
Ascending New Heights: A Rising Star’s Journey
Praggnanandhaa took the world by storm as a 16-year-old when he achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the then-youngest player to defeat Carlsen. Amidst the spotlight shared with his contemporary Gukesh, who became India’s highest-rated player, Pragg’s meteoric rise has reached new altitudes in this tournament.
By advancing to the semifinals, Pragg secured a place in the history books as the first player since Viswanathan Anand to qualify for the Candidates Tournament. The victor of the Candidates Tournament will earn the right to challenge Ding Liren for the coveted World Championship title.
Carlsen’s Triumph: Journey to the FIDE World Cup Final
On the opposite end of the chess spectrum, the reigning World Champion Magnus Carlsen embarked on his own quest for glory in the semifinals against Azerbaijan’s Abasov. Tasked with avoiding a protracted struggle and settling for a draw in Game 2, Carlsen navigated the challenge, securing a draw after a marathon 74-move encounter. Abasov, buoyed by home support, showcased his mettle but ultimately yielded to Carlsen’s prowess.
As the FIDE World Cup intensifies, the world watches in awe as these chess giants vie for supremacy. With Pragg’s sensational journey and Carlsen’s resolute pursuit of another crown, the chess realm stands poised for historic moments and breathtaking battles that will forever be etched in the annals of the sport’s history.