In a landmark moment for Indian chess, 19-year-old Grandmaster D Gukesh achieved his first classical victory over former World Champion Magnus Carlsen during Round 6 of the Norway Chess 2025 tournament. This significant win not only marks a personal milestone for Gukesh but also signals a shift in the global chess landscape.
The Match: A Turnaround Victory
The game unfolded with Carlsen, the world number one, maintaining a dominant position for the majority of the match. However, under time pressure, Carlsen committed a critical blunder, allowing Gukesh to seize the opportunity and turn the tables. This comeback has been widely celebrated as the “Turnaround of the Year,” highlighting Gukesh’s resilience and tactical brilliance.
Carlsen’s Reaction: A Rare Display of Frustration
Following the unexpected loss, Carlsen exhibited visible frustration, including a moment where he slammed his fist on the table, causing the chess pieces to scatter. Such a display is rare for the typically composed grandmaster and underscores the emotional intensity of elite-level competition.
Gukesh’s Composure Amidst the Storm
In contrast, Gukesh remained calm and professional. When asked about Carlsen’s reaction, he commented, “I’ve also banged a lot of tables,” acknowledging that emotional outbursts are not uncommon in the heat of competitive chess.
Implications for the Tournament
Gukesh’s victory has propelled him to third place in the tournament standings, closely trailing Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana, who are tied at the top. This win significantly boosts Gukesh’s confidence and adds intrigue to the remaining rounds of the tournament.
