Indian chess fans have plenty to celebrate as the latest FIDE rankings, released on July 1, 2025, mark a historic milestone. The 19-year-old Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has climbed up the ranks to become the world number four and India’s number one player. This is the highest ranking of his career and a testament to his remarkable consistency and resilience on the global stage.
“This India number one can change every game. I don’t think it matters who’s India number one right now. For me, more than being India number one, it’s about winning this tournament that makes me happier. Of course, rating does matter,” Praggnanandhaa told The Indian Express, reflecting the fierce competition among India’s elite.
How R Praggnanandhaa Reached The Top
R Praggnanandhaa’s rise was prompted by his victory at the UzChess Cup 2025 in Tashkent, where he gained 12 rating points after a dramatic comeback in the final rounds and a victory in the tiebreaks. His performance not only secured the prestigious title but also extended his lead in the FIDE Circuit standings, making him the top contender for the Candidates Tournament 2026.
Three Indians In Top 10
The July 2025 FIDE Rankings now stand as follows for the top Indians:
- R Praggnanandhaa: 2779 (World No. 4)
- Arjun Erigaisi: 2776 (World No. 5)
- D Gukesh: 2776 (World No. 6)
This Indian trio’s presence in the world’s top six highlights the ongoing Indian chess renaissance.
A Year of Breakthroughs For R Praggnanandhaa
Praggnanandhaa’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of spectacular. He has won multiple tournaments, which are:
- Tata Steel Chess Tournament, Wijk aan Zee: Champion (February)
- Superbet Chess Classic Romania: Champion (May)
- UzChess Cup, Tashkent: Champion (June)
- He also finished second at the Stepan Avagyan Memorial and delivered strong showings at the Prague Chess Festival and Grand Chess Tour events.
The battle for India’s top spot has become one of chess’s most thrilling storylines. With Arjun Erigaisi and reigning world champion D Gukesh both at 2776, it’s time for a new rivalry for the top.
Top 10 FIDE Rankings (Globally)
| # | Name | Fed | Rating |
| 1 | Carlsen, Magnus | NOR | 2839 |
| 2 | Nakamura, Hikaru | USA | 2807 |
| 3 | Caruana, Fabiano | USA | 2784 |
| 4 | Praggnanandhaa R | IND | 2779 |
| 5 | Erigaisi Arjun | IND | 2776 |
| 6 | Gukesh D | IND | 2776 |
| 7 | Abdusattorov, Nodirbek | UZB | 2771 |
| 8 | Firouzja, Alireza | FRA | 2766 |
| 9 | Wei, Yi | CHN | 2748 |
| 10 | Giri, Anish | NED | 2748 |
Also Read: R Praggnanandhaa’s India Number 1 Ratings Won’t “Impact” Him At All
