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In a thrilling chess showdown, 19-year-old Indian world champion D Gukesh stunned the chess world again. He defeated Magnus Carlsen, the world No. 1, in round six of the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb. After his classical victory at Norway Chess last month, this is Gukesh’s second consecutive victory over the Norwegian legend. With this triumph, Gukesh surges ahead as the sole leader with 10 points. Let’s dive into this exciting moment!
A Bold Start Sets the Stage
Gukesh arrived first at the board, exuding calm confidence. In an attempt to gain an early advantage, Carlsen, who was playing White, started with the English opening. Initially, Carlsen held the upper hand after 18…Nh5 19. Bf2!. However, Gukesh, playing Black, stayed composed. He countered brilliantly with 26…d5, shifting the game’s momentum. Gukesh took charge as Carlsen’s time ran out and his position deteriorated. After 49 moves, Carlsen resigned with a quiet handshake, his disappointment clear but restrained—no table-thumping this time, unlike his dramatic reaction in Norway.
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Gukesh’s Rapid Rise
Since Gukesh isn’t very good at rapid chess, this victory is particularly noteworthy. Known for his prowess in classical chess, where he became the youngest world champion last year, Gukesh thrives on deep calculation. Rapid and blitz formats, with less time to think, often challenge him. Yet, in Zagreb, he’s been a force, managing his time well and clinching five wins in a row. “I’ve learned to fight hard when I’m cornered,” Gukesh shared with the official broadcaster, reflecting on his resilience.
Carlsen’s Struggles in Zagreb
Carlsen admitted his tournament performance has been shaky. “I played poorly and got soundly punished,” he said after the loss. He praised Gukesh’s skill, noting, “He found really good moves. I had a chance for a draw but kept playing, and soon I was hopelessly lost.” Carlsen’s day was tough, with a draw against Alireza Firouzja in a tricky rook endgame and another draw against India’s Praggnanandhaa R. Currently, he sits at six points, trailing Gukesh by four.
Kasparov Questions Carlsen’s Dominance
Chess legend Garry Kasparov, commentating for the official stream, was struck by Gukesh’s performance. We can now challenge Magnus’ dominance,” he said. “This is a convincing defeat, not just the second one. Gukesh didn’t just capitalize on mistakes; he fought hard and won.” Kasparov compared Gukesh’s resilience to a computer, saying, “You lose focus against him, and you’re done. He’s the kind of player you must beat multiple times.”
Gukesh’s Winning Streak
Gukesh’s dominance in Zagreb is undeniable. Earlier on Day 2, he defeated Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Abdusattorov and American Fabiano Caruana, showcasing his versatility. Gukesh is two points ahead of Jan-Krzysztof Duda of Poland with three rounds remaining in the rapid section. Third-place finisher Wesley So has seven points, ahead of Carlsen, Anish Giri, and Ivan Saric, who have six. Firouzja and Abdusattorov are further behind, while Praggnanandhaa and Caruana are tied for seventh place with five points.
A Special Victory
For Gukesh, beating Carlsen is always a milestone. “It’s special, for sure,” he told the Hindustan Times. “I had a terrible position early on, but winning from two losing positions gives me confidence.” Despite falling behind on time against Carlsen—a rare occurrence in this tournament—Gukesh stayed sharp, capitalizing on Carlsen’s mid-game blunder to turn the tables.
What’s Next for Gukesh?
This win solidifies Gukesh’s status as a rising star. His ability to adapt to rapid chess, a format Carlsen once called him “weaker” in, proves his growth. As the tournament heads into its final day, all eyes are on Gukesh. Can he maintain his lead and claim the title? For the time being, the chess community honours an Indian teen who is changing history one move at a time.