In the dynamic world of competitive chess, where strategic depth meets raw talent, a new narrative has begun to unfold, centered on the remarkable rise of Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa. At just 19 years old, the Grandmaster from Chennai has not only claimed the coveted title of India`s No. 1 classical chess player but has done so with a transformation that speaks less to tactical upgrades and more to profound psychological shifts. He has, quite definitively, surpassed his compatriot Gukesh, marking a significant turning point in Indian chess history.
From Discontent to Dominance: A Shift in Perspective
For a talent as prodigious as Praggnanandhaa, discussing a “resurgence” might strike some as premature. Yet, the young Grandmaster himself acknowledged a period of dissatisfaction in the latter half of 2024. His game, while still formidable, didn`t meet his own exacting standards. This candid introspection, shared with his team and mentor, coach RB Ramesh, became the catalyst for change.
The solution wasn`t found solely in opening theory or endgame studies, but in the subtle, yet powerful, realm of mental fortitude. Praggnanandhaa`s revelation was simple: a renewed commitment to fight for every win, to push relentlessly even in the most dire positions, and to approach tournaments with an unwavering belief in his capacity to overcome. This shift, he notes, was the true differentiator of 2025.
A Trio of Triumphs: The Year of Praggnanandhaa
The impact of this mental recalibration has been nothing short of spectacular. This year alone, Praggnanandhaa has clinched three high-level titles, each a testament to his sharpened resolve:
- Tata Steel Chess Masters: An early victory that signaled his intent, notably triumphing over world champion Gukesh Dommaraju in a thrilling blitz tie-break.
- Superbet Chess Classic: Another masterclass, where he navigated a challenging field to emerge victorious, once again showcasing his prowess in rapid tie-break scenarios against elite players like Alireza Firouzja and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave.
- UzChess Cup 2025: Perhaps the most illustrative example of his new mentality. Trailing leader Nodirbek Abdusattorov by a substantial 1.5 points with only two rounds remaining, Praggnanandhaa faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Yet, with a quiet determination, he first defeated Arjun Erigaisi, then capitalized on favorable results elsewhere before conquering Abdusattorov himself in a decisive tie-break.
His humble assessment of the India No. 1 ranking — “that can change when any of us play just one game, I am just one point above Gukesh, so that doesn`t mean much” — underscores his focus not on accolades, but on the purity of the game itself. However, for observers, the numbers tell a compelling story: world No. 4 and climbing.
The Art of the Comeback: Tie-Break Dominance
Praggnanandhaa`s exceptional performance in tie-breaks this year has become a defining characteristic of his renewed form. He attributes this less to a specific tactical advantage in faster time controls and more to his readiness for the fight. While acknowledging a degree of luck, particularly in overcoming losing positions against Abdusattorov and Sindarov at the UzChess Cup, his sheer will to win shines through.
It`s not just the tie-breaks themselves, but the dramatic path to them that highlights his growth. Winning with black pieces against Fabiano Caruana in the penultimate round of the Tata Steel Masters, or against Erigaisi in Uzbekistan, demonstrates a player who no longer waits for opportunities but actively creates them, even when the odds seem stacked against him.
Eyes on the Crown: The Road to Candidates 2026
Currently leading the FIDE Circuit 2025 standings, Praggnanandhaa is strategically positioned for a direct qualification to the 2026 FIDE Candidates tournament. Yet, with a chess player`s pragmatic understanding of the long game, he leaves nothing to chance. Significant opportunities, such as the FIDE Grand Swiss and the FIDE World Cup (where he secured a notable second place in 2023), still lie ahead, offering alternative paths to the Candidates.
His schedule for the remainder of the year reflects this ambition, being packed to the brim. “I would like some rest, but it doesn`t look like I am going to get it,” he quipped, a testament to the relentless demands of elite-level chess. From the Grand Chess Tour in Croatia to the Sinquefield Cup in St. Louis, and even a foray into the eSports World Cup in Riyadh with Team Liquid alongside titans like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana, Praggnanandhaa is embracing every challenge.
A New Era for Indian Chess
Supported by Adani Sportsline, Praggnanandhaa`s journey from a promising junior to India`s top classical player is more than a personal triumph; it signifies a vibrant new era for Indian chess. His story is a compelling reminder that raw talent, while essential, must be tempered and honed by an unbreakable spirit and a profound mental game.
As he continues to push boundaries, aiming for the ultimate prize – becoming a challenger for the World Championship – his transformation offers a valuable lesson: in the intricate ballet of 64 squares, the most formidable weapon often resides not in the pieces, but in the mind of the player.
Finley Holt 
Oliver Brampton