World Champion Gukesh Stuns Carlsen in SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia
The chess world was left in a state of shock as reigning World Champion Gukesh produced a stunning performance to defeat world number-one Magnus Carlsen from a losing position in the ongoing SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia tournament. Gukesh’s victory propelled him to the top of the standings, leaving him two points ahead of his closest competitor, GM Firouzja.
Day Two Recap
Day two of the tournament was marked by the highly anticipated showdown between Gukesh and Carlsen. The young Indian prodigy continued his winning streak by recording victories over strong opponents, showcasing his strategic prowess and tactical acumen.
Gukesh’s exceptional performance began with a convincing win over Abdusattorov, where he expertly capitalized on his opponent’s mistakes to secure a crucial victory. Despite facing challenges in the subsequent rounds, Gukesh’s resilience and strategic brilliance allowed him to maintain his winning momentum.
Meanwhile, Carlsen, who started the day as co-leader, struggled to find his rhythm and was held to two draws that raised questions about his form. The world champion faced tough competition from his rivals but managed to salvage a draw in critical moments, showcasing his fighting spirit and determination.
The Epic Showdown: Gukesh vs. Carlsen
The highlight of the day was the much-anticipated clash between Gukesh and Carlsen, a rematch of their previous encounter in Norway Chess. Carlsen, who had previously underestimated Gukesh’s abilities, faced a fierce challenge from the young Indian, who displayed exceptional skill and composure throughout the game.
Despite a shaky start, Gukesh staged a remarkable comeback from a losing position, outmaneuvering Carlsen with his tactical brilliance and strategic play. The game culminated in a stunning victory for Gukesh, marking his fifth consecutive win in the tournament and solidifying his position as a formidable contender.
Implications for the Chess World
Gukesh’s exceptional performance and victory over Carlsen have sparked discussions within the chess community about a potential shift in the dominance of the reigning world champion. Former World Champion Kasparov raised the question of whether Carlsen’s era of supremacy is coming to an end, given his recent struggles and defeats.
Top Indian coach GM Srinath Narayanan highlighted the significance of Gukesh’s success, pointing towards a generational shift in the chess world. Gukesh’s ability to adapt to new challenges and formats has impressed experts and fans alike, signaling a potential change in the chess landscape.
Looking Ahead
With Gukesh leading the standings and Carlsen trailing by four points, the tournament remains wide open, with several top players vying for the title. As the competition intensifies, all eyes will be on Gukesh as he seeks to maintain his remarkable form and continue his winning streak.
As the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia tournament progresses, chess enthusiasts can expect more thrilling matches and intense battles between the top contenders. The competition promises to deliver excitement and drama, setting the stage for an unforgettable conclusion.
Watch the Action
Chess fans can follow the live broadcast of the 2025 SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia tournament on the Saint Louis Chess Club website. Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and in-depth coverage of the ongoing chess spectacle in Zagreb.
