Imagine this: 19-year-old Indian chess prodigy Gukesh didn’t just take the throne in Zagreb, he left Magnus Carlsen, the world champion and chess giant, scratching his head! After three days of rapid chess at the Grand Chess Tour in Zagreb, Gukesh dominated with 14 points, ahead of Poland’s Duda with 11 and Carlsen himself with 10 points. Yes, you read that right — Carlsen, who before the tournament said rapid chess was his weaker game, now admits he’s not enjoying chess at all and things aren’t going well. Gukesh, at just 19, showed resilience and strength reminiscent of a computer — lose focus against him, and you’re done!
Our own Ivan Šarić, ranked 34th by FIDE, didn’t stay on the sidelines. He drew with two of today’s best — Carlsen and Gukesh! Though he admitted he was weaker in the game against Gukesh, he managed a draw in a nail-biting time scramble. Šarić is satisfied with his performance: seven draws and only two losses in the world’s toughest competition.
But it wasn’t all sunshine for Carlsen. Gukesh handed him his second consecutive loss, and legendary Garry Kasparov commented that Gukesh’s resilience is like a computer — you have to beat him multiple times in the same game! This has turned the chess world upside down.
The Zagreb tournament is a real chess drama with seven of the world’s top ten players, including Caruana, Giri, Firouzja, and So. After nine rapid games, Gukesh leads with 14 points, Duda has 11, and Carlsen 10. Ivan Šarić holds a solid 9th place with 7 points.
This tournament isn’t just about points; it’s about prestige and proving young talents. Gukesh, at 19, has already broken Garry Kasparov’s record as the youngest world champion at 22. Is this the start of a new era in chess?
If you love chess, or just love watching old chess giants get toppled by young lions, this tournament is a treat. And if you think chess is boring, think again — real battles are being fought here, with tactics that will leave you breathless!
So honestly, who’s your favorite? Is Gukesh the new Carlsen, or will Magnus make a comeback? Or maybe our Ivan Šarić will surprise everyone? Drop a comment, start a debate, or just enjoy this chess spectacle!
