Praggnanandhaa creates history: First Indian to win Norway Chess title

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Jun 6, 2026: Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa scripted history on Friday by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title, securing the crown with a crucial final-round victory over Germany’s Vincent Keymer.

Starting the final day in third place with 15 points, the 20-year-old Indian displayed remarkable composure under pressure. His classical win over Keymer earned him three points, taking his tally to 18 and propelling him to the top of the standings.

With this triumph, Praggnanandhaa achieved a milestone that had eluded even Indian chess legend Vishwanathan Anand and reigning world champion D Gukesh since the tournament was established in 2013.

Competing in only his second appearance at the elite six-player event, the Chennai-based Grandmaster overcame a slow start to produce a stunning finish. His campaign was highlighted by two classical victories over World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, a rare feat in modern chess and a significant turnaround after a disappointing Candidates Tournament earlier this year.

As Gukesh’s title challenge faded in the closing stages, Praggnanandhaa carried India’s hopes and ultimately delivered the country’s first Norway Chess championship.

The Indian Grandmaster also benefited from American Grandmaster Wesley So’s draw against Alireza Firouzja in their classical encounter. The result pushed their match into an Armageddon tie-break, leaving So on 15.5 points after the classical game.

That outcome opened the door for Praggnanandhaa, who knew that a classical victory over Keymer would be enough to move him to the top of the leaderboard. He seized the opportunity in style, clinching a landmark title and etching his name into the history books.