Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh delivered a commanding performance to win the Rapid section of the Grand Chess Tour Zagreb 2025, finishing at the top of the leaderboard with a total of 14 points from 18 rounds. The 18-year-old showcased consistency and strategic brilliance throughout the event, surpassing several globally ranked players.
Competing against elite players such as Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, Alireza Firouzja, and Ian Nepomniachtchi, Gukesh held his ground with strong wins and solid defenses. A crucial turning point came in the fifth round when Gukesh defeated Nakamura, giving him a significant advantage in the standings and solidifying his lead.
This victory marks a significant milestone in Gukesh’s rapidly growing career. Following his notable performance in the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, where he impressed chess followers with his tactical depth, this win further cements his status as one of the top young talents in the chess world.
Speaking after the tournament, Gukesh expressed his happiness with the result. “Playing in Zagreb was an incredible experience. The competition was intense, and I’m pleased with how I managed the games under pressure,” he said.
This triumph makes Gukesh only the second Indian chess player after Viswanathan Anand to win a Rapid event on the Grand Chess Tour. His achievement is being celebrated as a major boost for Indian chess, which is currently seeing a wave of rising stars such as R. Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin gaining global attention.
The All India Chess Federation (AICF) commended Gukesh for his achievement, stating that it reflects the growing strength of India’s chess ecosystem and the hard work put in by young talents and their coaching teams.
Gukesh’s coach, Grandmaster Vishnu Prasanna, praised his student’s dedication, stating, “His ability to stay calm in complex situations and play with clarity under time pressure has improved significantly. This win is a result of tireless training and focused preparation.”
With his next appearance scheduled at the Sinquefield Cup 2025, another key event in the Grand Chess Tour, Gukesh is expected to continue his impressive run. His rapid title in Zagreb serves as both a personal milestone and a reflection of India’s growing impact on the world chess stage.
