Indian chess sensation D Gukesh has stunned the global chess community by defeating world number one Magnus Carlsen and winning five consecutive games at the 2025 SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia Chess Championship in Zagreb. 

The 18-year-old Grandmaster now leads the tournament with 10 points after six rounds, outpacing elite competitors like Jan-Krzysztof Duda and Fabiano Caruana.

Gukesh’s victory, which included a critical win in Round 6 against Carlsen, has drawn praise from chess legends and officials, signalling a potential shift in the chess world’s balance of power.

Gukesh’s Triumph: Precision, Nerves, and Humility

Gukesh’s performance in Zagreb has been a masterclass in both skill and composure. His five-game winning streak began with victories over formidable opponents, each game showcasing his deep preparation and tactical acuity.

The pivotal clash came against Carlsen, where Gukesh, playing black, weathered a challenging opening. Carlsen’s ambitious b4 pawn advance backfired, and Gukesh capitalised with precise calculation, forcing Carlsen into a defensive retreat.

As the clock ticked down, Carlsen extended his hand in resignation a rare sight for the Norwegian champion. “Beating Magnus is always special,” Gukesh remarked, “and this gives a bit more confidence.

I had a horrible opening, but I kept fighting.” Carlsen, reflecting on his own struggles, said, “I got soundly punished… All credit to Gukesh; he’s playing well and taking his chances.” Garry Kasparov, observing live, called the result “a convincing loss” and noted, “Magnus’ domination can now be questioned.”

Chess World Reacts: A New Generation Emerges

The response to Gukesh’s achievement has been electric. Indian chess fans have flooded social media with messages of support, and the All India Chess Federation’s president, Sanjay Kapoor, called it “a proud moment for Indian chess.”

Internationally, commentators have noted that Gukesh’s back-to-back wins over Carlsen first at Norway Chess 2025 and now in Zagreb signal a changing of the guard in elite chess. The SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia, featuring seven of the world’s top ten players, has become the stage for Gukesh’s coming of age.

Former world champion Viswanathan Anand tweeted, “Gukesh is showing the world what Indian chess is capable of.” Meanwhile, chess analysts have pointed out that Carlsen’s rare vulnerability and Gukesh’s consistency could reshape the competitive landscape for years to come.

The Road to Zagreb: Preparation and Perspective

Gukesh’s journey to the top has been marked by relentless hard work and a supportive ecosystem. Trained at the Westbridge Anand Chess Academy, he has benefited from mentorship by Indian legend Viswanathan Anand and a team of dedicated coaches.

Gukesh’s rise has been meteoric: from becoming India’s youngest Grandmaster at 12 to now challenging and beating the world’s best. His parents, both doctors, have often spoken about his discipline and humility, values that have helped him navigate the pressures of international competition.

In the lead-up to Zagreb, Gukesh focused on rapid and blitz formats, honing his ability to calculate under time pressure a skill that proved decisive against Carlsen. As the tournament heads into its final rounds, Gukesh remains focused, saying, “I’m just taking it one game at a time.”

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

D Gukesh’s breakthrough is a beacon of hope and inspiration, not just for Indian chess but for young dreamers everywhere. His humility in victory and Carlsen’s graciousness in defeat remind us that true greatness lies in respect, empathy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Gukesh’s journey shows that barriers be they age, geography, or reputation can be overcome with perseverance and support. As India celebrates this historic moment, let us remember that every young achiever deserves encouragement and opportunity.

How do you think Gukesh’s rise will inspire the next generation of chess players and young leaders across India and the world? What lessons can we all draw from his journey about resilience, humility, and the spirit of healthy competition?