The game, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, concluded in a draw after 35 moves, setting the stage for an exhilarating competition.
The final of the FIDE Chess World Cup 2023 will be determined through a tie-breaker on Thursday, following two draws between Indian prodigy R Praggnanandhaa and the reigning World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in their classical games. Carlsen, who disclosed that he had suffered from food poisoning leading up to the crucial final, settled for a draw in the second game in Baku after 30 moves while playing with the white pieces.
In the initial game of the final, Praggnanandhaa, affectionately known as Pragg, faced off against the current World No. 1, Magnus Carlsen. The game, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, concluded in a draw after 35 moves, setting the stage for an exhilarating competition.
Praggnanandhaa's journey to the final has been truly remarkable. The Indian Grandmaster, boasting a FIDE rating of 2707 and currently ranked 29th globally, astounded the chess community by defeating World No. 3 Fabiano Caruana in the semifinals. This triumph was achieved through a tie-break, paving the way for Pragg's ultimate clash with Carlsen.
The young prodigy's performance in the tournament has been exceptional, showcasing his strategic prowess and unwavering determination. His victory over Caruana was particularly remarkable, as it marked Caruana's first loss in 17 games at the 2023 World Cup. Despite facing immense pressure, Praggnanandhaa managed to maintain his composure and secure a win, highlighting his defensive skills and tactical brilliance.
By reaching the final, Praggnanandhaa has not only carved his name into the annals of chess history but also secured his place in the prestigious 2024 Candidates Tournament. He now joins the ranks of legendary figures like Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen as the third youngest player to qualify for this esteemed event. This achievement serves as a testament to Praggnanandhaa's exceptional talent and boundless potential, solidifying his status as a rising star in the world of chess.
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