R Praggnanandhaa

Freestyle Chess Grand Slam: Aronian Wins Title, Arjun and Praggnanandhaa Finish Sixth and Seventh

Freestyle Chess Grand Slam: Aronian Wins Title, Arjun and Praggnanandhaa Finish Sixth and Seventh

National Times Bureau, July 21, 2025: Grandmaster Levon Aronian of the United States claimed the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam title after a tense 1.5-0.5 win over compatriot Hans Moke Niemann in the finals. The American star pocketed $200,000 for his victory, capping off an intense competition that featured some of the world's top chess players.India's Arjun Erigaisi and R Praggnanandhaa, who had both impressed in earlier rounds, finished sixth and seventh respectively. Arjun suffered a 0-2 defeat to American GM Fabiano Caruana, while Praggnanandhaa beat Wesley So 1.5-0.5 to end his campaign on a high note. Arjun earned $40,000 for…
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Praggnanandhaa Stuns Carlsen, Enters Freestyle Grand Slam Quarterfinals with Erigaisi

Praggnanandhaa Stuns Carlsen, Enters Freestyle Grand Slam Quarterfinals with Erigaisi

National Times Bureau, July 17: R Praggnanandhaa pulled off a stunning win against world number one Magnus Carlsen, advancing to the top-bracket quarterfinals of the USD 750,000 Freestyle Grand Slam Tour. Fellow Indian Arjun Erigaisi also secured a quarterfinal spot, marking a strong showing for India in the prestigious chess event.The 19-year-old Praggnanandhaa displayed precise tactical play from the outset, seizing the initiative and keeping the pressure on Carlsen. Despite the Norwegian getting some chances, the Indian teenager broke through with creative piece play, securing a memorable win.Carlsen’s defeat sparked a downward spiral. He lost to Wesley So in the…
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