(from left to right) GukeshD.. Praggnanandhaa R., Vidit Gujrathi, Arjun Erigiasi
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.
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.
The July 2025 FIDE Rankings now stand as follows for the top Indians:
This Indian trio’s presence in the world’s top six highlights the ongoing Indian chess renaissance.
Praggnanandhaa’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of spectacular. He has won multiple tournaments, which are:
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.
| # | 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
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