Chess Star Praggnanandhaa Weighs In on Carlsen's Frustration After Loss to Gukesh

Following Magnus Carlsen's demonstrative reaction to his defeat by D Gukesh at the Norway Chess tournament, R Praggnanandhaa has offered his perspective on the incident. The moment, marked by Carlsen slamming his fist on the table, quickly gained widespread attention.

Praggnanandhaa, the 19-year-old Grandmaster, acknowledged the display of emotion as a reminder of the intense passion required to achieve Carlsen's level of dominance.

"Yes, it was an instinctive reaction. I think it does happen to players. I've done it sometimes, but rarely," Praggnanandhaa told PTI. He further elaborated, "I mean, it's not as powerful as Magnus because he's a strong guy, but Gukesh has done it and many others. It's just an instinctive reaction because you're so focused that it just comes out."

While acknowledging the potential negative perception of such outbursts, Praggnanandhaa also pointed to a silver lining. "But, I mean, is it a good thing? Maybe not. I don't think so because I guess it's not good. I think so many people got to know that something like this happened and it became such a big thing on the internet," he stated.

He added, "And, I think it's good for the game in a way because a lot of people got to know that there was such a tournament going on and that such a dramatic game happened. So, I think there are some good things and bad things, but I think overall, chess is growing. That's what matters."

Despite the rise of young talents like Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa maintains respect for Carlsen's prowess. "I think Magnus is still the best player in the world. There’s no question about it," Praggnanandhaa affirmed. "Every time he plays, he’s the favourite. His performance — like winning 9 out of 9 in the Grand Slam Freestyle — that’s something only he can do. It’s just brilliant."

Praggnanandhaa himself has experienced a surge in his career. After a relatively subdued 2024, he has secured three significant classical titles this year: the Tata Steel Masters, Superbet Classic in Bucharest, and the UzChess Cup Masters. These victories have propelled him past Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, making him India's highest-rated player and placing him at World No. 4.

When asked about his recent success, Praggnanandhaa said, “I wasn't able to win as many games as I would have liked to (last year), but yeah, I'm much more confident now and much more ambitious than earlier. And, hopefully, I'll make it to the Candidates.”

He further commented, "I'm not sure how to answer that. But, I mean, I try to give my best in every tournament, and this year has been going my way so far."

Praggnanandhaa attributes some of his success in tie-breaks to maintaining composure under pressure.

"I do think tie-breaks require some luck. Because there were moments where I needed them. But I think being calm also helps in such situations where you are playing for high stakes in such a short time. I do feel the tension. It's not like I don't feel it. But I'm able to play much more calmer than my opponents," he explained.

Regarding the Candidates Tournament, Praggnanandhaa remains focused. "Yes, there are different spots, of course. I am currently leading (the race for a Candidates spot) but there is still a lot of fight till December. But I think, I mean, I will also be playing the Grand Swiss and the World Cup. So, if I can make it in one of those, that will be better because I don't have to wait till December," he stated.

He also acknowledged the collective success of Indian chess players: “But, I think, overall, we (Indians) are doing well. Gukesh winning the World Championship, his performance last year, he won gold in the Olympiad, he won the Candidates... and Arjun crossing 2800 in an exceptional last year. We are also inspiring each other," Pragg concluded.