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Indian Chess Players Reflect on Candidates Tournament Journey

Indian Chess Players Reflect on Candidates Tournament Journey

By May 4, 2024 0

The Candidates Tournament, a prestigious chess event, concluded recently with an Indian teenager making history. However, for other Indian participants, the aftermath has been a mix of emotions and introspection.

Vidit Gujrathi, making his Candidates debut, finished sixth. His defeat to Ian Nepomniachtchi in Round 11, despite escaping two losing positions, left a lasting impact. “It shattered me,” he admitted. “I didn’t manage my emotions well. I need to be mentally tougher.” Gujrathi’s tournament included two victories over world No. 3 Hikaru Nakamura and eight decisive games, but also five losses. “I took risks, but when you play with fire, you can burn yourself,” he said. “I have no regrets, but I have to wait two more years for the next Candidates.”

Praggnanandhaa, 18, made an impressive debut, showcasing innovative opening strategies. While he missed some opportunities, he acknowledged the significance of his fifth-place finish. “Gukesh’s win shows that our generation is ready,” he said. “I tried to fight with both colors, but I needed to score more wins.”

Koneru Humpy, 37, finished tied second in the Women’s Candidates. Despite personal challenges, she played better in the second half. “I didn’t expect to finish second,” she said. “I was just trying to save rating points.” Humpy, a renowned female player, has yet to win a Women’s World Championship.

The Candidates Tournament has left a lasting impact on these Indian players. For Praggnanandhaa, it’s a source of motivation. For Vidit, it’s a challenge to overcome disappointment and set new goals. For Humpy, it’s a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges of balancing chess with motherhood.

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Vaishali Rameshbabu's Remarkable Comeback at the Candidates Tournament

Vaishali Rameshbabu’s Remarkable Comeback at the Candidates Tournament

By April 27, 2024 0

Vaishali Rameshbabu’s remarkable comeback at the Candidates Tournament has been a testament to her resilience and determination. After a disastrous start with four consecutive losses, the 22-year-old Indian prodigy rallied to win five straight games, finishing tied second with 7.5 points.

Vaishali’s turnaround began with a crucial victory over Nurgyul Salimova in Round 10. The Bulgarian was on the verge of victory but self-destructed, giving Vaishali the breakthrough she desperately needed.

“In such tournaments, luck plays an important role,” Vaishali acknowledged. “It’s not entirely about how well you prepare or play.”

Despite her initial setbacks, Vaishali remained confident in her abilities. “I knew I wasn’t a favorite by rating, but I’d beaten most of the players in the field before,” she said.

Her most satisfying win came against top seed Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 11. Vaishali played the Alapin Sicilian with precision and went on to win with a Knight underpromotion.

“I could have settled for a draw, but I was looking to take every chance that came my way,” she said. “I’m pretty proud of that game.”

Vaishali’s comeback was not without its emotional challenges. “After three losses in a row, I completely gave up,” she admitted. “But I was determined to get back in shape and fight.”

Her brother, Praggnanandhaa, provided support during her struggles. “We would discuss our games, but I didn’t want to burden him with my emotions,” Vaishali said.

On the final day of play, Vaishali and Praggnanandhaa witnessed the thrilling conclusion of the Open section. “We could feel the pressure and tension even though it wasn’t us playing,” Vaishali said. “I felt happy to see Gukesh make it in the end.”

Vaishali’s comeback story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance and resilience in competitive chess. “I may not have won the tournament, but those last few wins certainly made a huge difference,” she said.

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Indian Prodigy Gukesh D Breaks Kasparov's Record, Eyes World Championship

Indian Prodigy Gukesh D Breaks Kasparov’s Record, Eyes World Championship

By April 26, 2024 0

Garry Kasparov, the youngest-ever world champion at 22, could see his record being smashed later this year. Indian prodigy Gukesh D, just 17 years old, has already broken Kasparov’s youngest-ever Candidates winner record.

Kasparov himself acknowledged Gukesh’s remarkable achievement, writing on social media: “The Indian earthquake in Toronto is the culmination of the shifting tectonic plates in the chess world as the 17-year-old Gukesh D will face the Chinese champion Ding Liren for the highest title. The ‘children’ of Vishy Anand are on the loose!”

Gukesh’s victory in the Candidates Tournament has sent shockwaves through the chess world. He is the youngest player to ever qualify for the Candidates, and his performance has been nothing short of sensational. In the tournament, he defeated some of the world’s top players, including former world champion Fabiano Caruana and current world number two Ian Nepomniachtchi.

Gukesh’s success is a testament to the rising tide of young talent in chess. In recent years, we have seen a number of teenagers emerge as serious contenders for the world championship. This is due in part to the increasing popularity of chess online, which has allowed young players to gain experience and compete against top players from around the world.

If Gukesh can continue his meteoric rise, he could become the youngest-ever world champion. He is already one of the most talented players in the world, and he has the potential to achieve great things.

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Indian Prodigy D Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Title Challenger

Indian Prodigy D Gukesh Becomes Youngest World Title Challenger

By April 25, 2024 0

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh has etched his name in history as the youngest challenger to the world title after his triumph at the prestigious Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. The 17-year-old is the first Indian since the legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the tournament, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.

Gukesh’s father, Dr. Rajinikanth, a surgeon by profession, made a bold decision to quit his practice to support his son’s chess aspirations. This risky move, initially met with opposition from family, has now borne fruit. “It was a tense moment as the game was fluctuating,” Rajinikanth recalled about the decisive tie. “We were not sure about the result and felt that he should better prepare for the tiebreaks next day.”

However, fate had a different plan. The organizer informed Rajinikanth that the match was over, much to their surprise. “There was a 15-minute delay in broadcast so we weren’t aware of the situation,” he added.

Gukesh’s victory has not only brought him international acclaim but has also inspired young chess players in Tamil Nadu. The legendary Viswanathan Anand, a role model for Gukesh, has played a significant role in fostering the chess culture in the state.

Upon his return from Toronto, Gukesh received a rousing reception from fans at the Chennai airport. Hundreds of students from his school, Velammal Vidyalaya, lined up to greet the champion. “I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement,” Gukesh said. “I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well.”

Gukesh’s triumph is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his family and coaches. It is a moment of pride for India and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chess players around the world.

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17-Year-Old Indian Prodigy Gukesh Triumphs in Candidates Tournament

17-Year-Old Indian Prodigy Gukesh Triumphs in Candidates Tournament

By April 23, 2024 0

D Gukesh, the 17-year-old Indian chess prodigy, has emerged victorious in the Candidates Tournament, securing his spot in the World Championship later this year. Despite the intense pressure and emotional rollercoaster of the tournament, Gukesh maintained a remarkable composure and resilience.

In a candid moment, Gukesh revealed that he had to leave the playing hall during the crucial game between Fabiano Caruana and Ian Nepomniachtchi, as the stress became overwhelming. However, his trainer, Grzegorz Gajewski, praised Gukesh’s ability to stay calm and collected under pressure, a trait that has been instrumental in his success.

Gukesh’s journey to the top has been marked by unwavering determination and a willingness to face setbacks head-on. His pursuit of becoming the world’s youngest GM involved countless sacrifices and sleepless nights. Despite missing the record by a narrow margin, Gukesh learned valuable lessons about handling expectations and critical moments.

The period of uncertainty surrounding his qualification for the Candidates last year tested Gukesh’s resolve. However, he emerged stronger, with a renewed focus and determination. His long-time trainer, Vishnu Prasanna, played a crucial role in helping Gukesh overcome the mental challenges and prepare for the tournament.

Gukesh’s approach to chess is characterized by adaptability and resourcefulness. He has consciously limited his use of chess engines, allowing him to develop his intuition and problem-solving skills. This has enabled him to execute surprising moves and find creative solutions on the board.

His maturity and pragmatism have also been evident in his play. Gukesh is no longer solely focused on winning but is willing to make strategic draws when necessary. This newfound flexibility has contributed to his success in the Candidates.

World No.1 Magnus Carlsen, who initially underestimated Gukesh’s chances, was impressed by his performance. He advised Gukesh to remain patient and wait for his opportunities, a strategy that proved effective.

As Gukesh prepares to face reigning World Champion Ding Liren, he carries the hopes of India and the chess world. His remarkable journey and unwavering determination serve as an inspiration to young players everywhere.

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17-Year-Old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh Becomes Youngest Challenger to World Chess Title

17-Year-Old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh Becomes Youngest Challenger to World Chess Title

By April 23, 2024 0

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh Makes History, Becomes Youngest Challenger to World Chess Title

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh has etched his name in the annals of chess history by becoming the youngest-ever challenger to the world title. The 17-year-old Grandmaster from Chennai scripted history on Monday by winning the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto, Canada.

Gukesh’s triumph is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. He played out an easy draw with American Hikaru Nakamura in the 14th and final round to finish with an impressive nine points out of a possible 14. This remarkable achievement has shattered the record previously held by legendary Russian Grandmaster Garry Kasparov for 40 years.

Kasparov, who held the No.1 ranking from 1984 until his retirement in 2005, was bowled over by Gukesh’s historic feat. He hailed it as an “Indian earthquake in Toronto” and a sign of the shifting power dynamics in world chess. Kasparov also credited former world no.1 Viswanathan Anand for Gukesh’s success, saying, “The ‘children’ of Vishy Anand are on the loose!”

Gukesh’s victory is a major milestone for Indian chess. He is only the second Indian after Anand to win the prestigious Candidates Tournament. Anand’s triumph came in 2014, when he was 44 years old.

Gukesh’s journey to the top has been marked by hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his family and coaches. He became a Grandmaster at the age of 12, making him the second-youngest Indian to achieve the title.

Gukesh’s victory has sent shockwaves through the chess world. He is now set to face Chinese champion Ding Liren in a match for the world title. The match is expected to be a thrilling battle between two of the most talented players in the game.

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Viswanathan Anand's Triumphant Return: A Decade of Indian Dominance in the Candidates

Viswanathan Anand’s Triumphant Return: A Decade of Indian Dominance in the Candidates

By April 21, 2024 0

Viswanathan Anand’s remarkable victory at the 2014 Candidates Tournament stands as a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination. After a crushing defeat to Magnus Carlsen in the 2013 World Championship, Anand faced doubts and skepticism about his ability to compete at the highest level.

Despite his initial reluctance, Anand was persuaded by Vladimir Kramnik to participate in the Candidates. With minimal preparation, he entered the tournament as an underdog. However, Anand’s detached mindset and low expectations proved to be his secret weapon.

In the first round, he stunned tournament favorite Levon Aronian, setting the tone for his dominant performance. Anand remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, securing his victory with a round to spare. His triumph earned him a rematch against Carlsen, although he ultimately fell short in the World Championship.

Anand’s 2014 Candidates victory is widely regarded as one of his greatest achievements. It showcased his ability to overcome adversity and regain his peak form. His legacy continues to inspire Indian chess players, as evidenced by the recent success of Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Vaishali, and Humpy at the 2022 Candidates Tournament.

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Indian Teenager D Gukesh Leads Candidates Tournament, Poised for History

Indian Teenager D Gukesh Leads Candidates Tournament, Poised for History

By April 21, 2024 0

Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh has made history by becoming the first teenager to lead the Candidates Tournament with just one round remaining. The 17-year-old stands on the cusp of a remarkable achievement, potentially becoming the youngest player ever to qualify for the World Championship.

Gukesh’s journey to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. In Round 13, he secured a crucial victory against Alireza Firouzja, while his co-leaders, Ian Nepomniachtchi and Hikaru Nakamura, opted for a draw. Fabiano Caruana also closed the gap with a win against R Praggnanandhaa.

Despite the pressure, Gukesh has remained composed and focused. “I’m just trying my best to stay calm,” he said. “There are nerves, but I’ve been eager and excited from the first round.”

The final round promises to be a nail-biting affair, with Gukesh holding a half-point lead over Nakamura, Caruana, and Nepomniachtchi. A draw against Nakamura should suffice for Gukesh if Caruana and Nepomniachtchi also draw. However, if the latter game ends decisively, the tournament will extend into a tie-break.

Gukesh’s success is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. He has shown remarkable resilience in his first Candidates appearance, balancing aggression with caution.

In the women’s section, China’s Tan Zhongyi has taken the sole lead with a full point advantage going into the final round. A draw should secure her a spot in the World Championship. India’s R Vaishali has also impressed, winning her fourth consecutive game and moving into a tie for third place.

The dominance of Chinese players in women’s chess continues, with every world champion since 2017 hailing from China.

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Indian Chess Prodigies Shatter Age Barriers in Candidates Tournament

Indian Chess Prodigies Shatter Age Barriers in Candidates Tournament

By April 20, 2024 0

In the realm of Indian chess, the age of 17 has emerged as a pivotal milestone, marking a transition from adolescence to adulthood. It is an age where young prodigies are often dismissed as lacking the experience and maturity to compete with the elite. However, two exceptional talents, R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh, have shattered these stereotypes, proving that age is no barrier to greatness.

Praggnanandhaa, now 18, made headlines in 2023 when he reached the final of the World Cup, defeating a string of world-class players along the way. Gukesh, still 17, is currently tied for first place in the prestigious Candidates tournament in Toronto, with just two rounds remaining. Should he emerge victorious, he will have the opportunity to challenge for the world championship.

Gukesh’s performance in the Candidates has been nothing short of remarkable. He has displayed a level of composure, focus, and resilience that belies his age. Even after a heartbreaking loss that threatened to derail his tournament chances, he rebounded with a decisive win in the next game.

This resilience is not new to Gukesh. At the age of 15, he suffered a devastating loss in the final round of the Reykjavik Open, missing a tactic that cost him the tournament victory. However, he quickly recovered, defeating Praggnanandhaa in a rematch a week later and going on to win three more tournaments in Spain without losing a single game.

Gukesh’s success can be attributed to his unwavering dedication to chess. Unlike many young players who are pushed into the game by ambitious parents, Gukesh’s passion for the game was self-driven. He chose to prioritize chess over academics, a decision that was supported by his parents despite its unconventional nature.

Going into the Candidates, Gukesh’s chances were not widely touted. History has shown that young talents often struggle under the intense pressure of high-stakes competition. However, Gukesh has proven to be an exception. He has stuck to his game plan, remaining calm and patient, and has shown a maturity that belies his years.

Gukesh’s performance has not only impressed the chess world but has also challenged the perception of young players as lacking in experience and maturity. He has shown that age is no barrier to greatness and that with dedication, focus, and resilience, anything is possible.

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Gukesh Faces Alireza in Penultimate Round of Candidates' Chess Tournament

Gukesh Faces Alireza in Penultimate Round of Candidates’ Chess Tournament

By April 20, 2024 0

The Candidates’ chess tournament in Toronto is nearing its climax, with just two rounds remaining. Indian prodigy D Gukesh, currently tied for the lead with 7.5 points, faces a crucial challenge against Firouza Alireza of France in the penultimate round. A victory for Gukesh would significantly boost his chances of securing a spot in the World Championship match.

Alireza, who has been struggling in the tournament, will be a formidable opponent for Gukesh. However, the Indian Grandmaster has shown impressive form throughout the event and will be confident of overcoming this hurdle.

The other key clash in the penultimate round will be between Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia and Hikaru Nakamura of the United States. Nepomniachtchi, the only undefeated player in the tournament, will be looking to maintain his momentum, while Nakamura has been in excellent form, winning three consecutive games.

Fabiano Caruana of the United States is the only other player with a realistic chance of winning the event. With seven points, he faces a tough challenge against R Praggnanandhaa of India and Nepomniachtchi in the final round.

Praggnanandhaa, who had shown early promise in the tournament, has struggled in recent rounds. However, the Indian prodigy remains a dangerous opponent and could still finish on the podium.

Another Indian, Vidit Gujrathi, had a promising start but has since fallen behind. Nerves and time pressure have played a role in his setbacks, and he will need to perform better in the remaining rounds to secure a respectable finish.

In the women’s section, Zhongyi Tan of China holds a narrow lead with eight points. Her closest contender is compatriot Tingjie Lei, who is half a point behind. The two leaders are followed by Aleksandra Goryachkina and Kateryna Lagno of Russia, along with Koneru Humpy of India, who are all tied on six points.

R Vaishali of India is in sixth place with 5.5 points, while Anna Muzychuk of Ukraine and Nurgyul Salimovaa of Bulgaria are tied for seventh place with 4.5 points.

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