A Landmark Win for Gukesh
In a thrilling encounter at the Norway Chess 2025 tournament, Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh achieved a landmark victory against the legendary Magnus Carlsen, marking his first-ever classical win over the former World Champion. The match, played in Round 6, was a rollercoaster of emotions and tactical brilliance that captivated chess fans worldwide.
Magnus Carlsen’s Early Dominance
Magnus Carlsen, who had been dominating the game for most of the match, seemed poised to extend his lead. He played with near-perfect accuracy and maintained a winning position deep into the endgame. However, the tide turned dramatically during a tense time scramble, a phase where players must make quick decisions under severe time pressure. Carlsen made a critical blunder by dropping a knight, which opened the door for Gukesh to seize the advantage.
Gukesh’s Resilience and Precision
Despite being in a losing position earlier, Gukesh displayed remarkable resilience and precision, continuously finding the best moves to stay in the game. His fighting spirit and calm under pressure allowed him to capitalize on Carlsen’s mistake and ultimately secure the win. Gukesh himself humbly described the victory as a “lucky day,” acknowledging that “99 out of 100 times” he might have lost in that situation. Yet, it was his relentless defense and sharp calculation that made the difference.
The Emotional Aftermath
The aftermath of the game was equally memorable. Magnus Carlsen, visibly frustrated, banged the table in disbelief but quickly composed himself and showed sportsmanship by congratulating Gukesh with a pat on the back. This moment highlighted the mutual respect between the two champions and underscored the significance of the win for Gukesh, who is seen as a rising star in the chess world.
A Milestone for Gukesh’s Career
For Gukesh, this victory was more than just a game; it was a personal milestone and a statement that the era of Carlsen’s invincibility is being challenged. It boosted his confidence and reaffirmed his position among the elite players. The chess community hailed the match as a “turnaround of the year” and one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory.
Also Read: The full biography of Gukesh, from early beginnings to world champion.