Historic triumph in Tashkent
In a dazzling display of skill and nerve, 19-year-old Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious at the UzChess Cup Masters 2025 in Tashkent on June 27, cementing his status as India’s top chess player in live ratings. His win bumped his live Elo to an impressive 2778.3, elevating him to World No. 4 and leapfrogging compatriots D. Gukesh (2776.6) and Arjun Erigaisi (2775.7), who had held India’s top ranks until the day before.
A dramatic final showdown
The tournament’s climax was nothing short of cinematic. Praggnanandhaa began the final day trailing Uzbek contenders Nodirbek Abdusattorov by a full point and Javokhir Sindarov by half. In the last classical round, he delivered a masterstroke: a 49-move win with Black against Abdusattorov. The result left all three tied at 5.5 points, forcing a blitz tiebreaker.
Blitz brilliance and tiebreak resilience
In an exhibit of nerve-shredding blitz, Praggnanandhaa outperformed his rivals. After an initial round-robin blitz where all secured two points, he drew Abdusattorov with White and downed Sindarov with Black in the decisive set. Sindarov then defeated Abdusattorov, sealing Praggnanandhaa’s historic victory. Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion, lauded his poise: “An impressive demonstration of character… he won his third tiebreak of the year as well.”
Three titles in one year
This UzChess win marks Praggnanandhaa’s third classical title in 2025, following triumphs at the prestigious Tata Steel Masters in Wijk aan Zee and the Superbet Chess Classic in Romania. He was also runner-up at the Stepan Avagyan Memorial in June, showcasing consistent elite-level performance.
Strategic evolution under RB Ramesh
Key to this stellar ascent has been a transformation in his playing style. Under coach RB Ramesh, Praggnanandhaa adopted a bolder, more adventurous approach, experimenting with diverse openings and embracing risk, a shift that has reaped significant rewards. Ramesh noted Praggnanandhaa’s newfound “variety of openings” and his “attacking and adventurous chess”, which became evident in Tashkent.
Support system paying dividends
Behind his transformation is second Vaibhav Suri, who has now begun accompanying Praggnanandhaa to tournaments. This robust support setup, Ramesh explained, helps maintain morale and consistency during high-pressure competitions.
A generational shift in Indian chess
With his rise, Praggnanandhaa has overtaken India’s 18-year-old world champion D. Gukesh and seasoned GM Arjun Erigaisi. His ascent reflects broader momentum: for the first time, four Indian players now occupy spots in the global top 10 live ratings, highlighting the nation’s arrival on the elite chess stage.
Looking ahead
Buoyed by his UzChess triumph, Praggnanandhaa is gearing up for the SuperUnited Croatia Rapid & Blitz tournament in Zagreb from July 2. Beyond that, his encouraging form, fuelled by daring play, strong support, and mental resilience, promises continued success as he jostles among the chess elite.
Conclusion: India’s new chess standard-bearer
Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa’s meteoric rise, from classical solidity to bold blitz triumphs, signals a changing of the guard in Indian chess. His third major title of 2025, new World No. 4 ranking, and position as India’s highest-rated player exemplify not just personal triumph but a collective leap for Indian chess. As he takes on Croatia next, the chess world watches eagerly: India’s new standard-bearer is here to stay.
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