Indian chess is on a boom lately, and this has given rise to many legendary rivalries, one of the most important being R Praggnanandhaa’s and Gukesh D. Gukesh D, being the younger one and the world champion, often faces intense pressure from peers and legends like Magnus Carlsen and Garry Kasparov. On the other hand, Pragg is a more subtle yet will take the limelight away type.
Ever since Pragg defeated Gukesh in the final round of the Tata Steel Masters 2025, this rivalry has been on a full-time high as Pragg also does comparatively better in tournaments featuring both of them. So, what does R Praggnanandhaa think of this rivalry? Let’s see.
R Praggnanandhaa On Gukesh Rivalry
This isn’t just a rivalry; it’s the kind that keeps fans glued to boards (and smartphones). Praggnanandhaa set the tone in a recent chat, stating, “I started playing before him. I was already stronger (in the game) when I was growing up in my age category. We played in some open events when we were young, but nowadays we play a lot because we are at the top events and tournaments.”
But before you picture rivalry as cold calculation, Pragg was quick to flip the narrative. There’s “ruthless fighting” between the two once the clocks start, but as soon as the last piece falls, they’re “just normal guys” sharing laughs off the board. “When we are off the board, we are just normal guys,” he said.
He also gave a little insight into Gukesh D’s playing style. He shared, “He is more calculation-based, trying to find the truth in the position, and going deep into every possible continuation.”
Read More
“I also go deep into the position, but I have my intuition guiding me through the lines. And, I think I am a more technical player while he is more of an aggressive and calculation-based player,” he told Curly Tales about his own playing style.
So, forget old chess clichés; this is new-school, full-throttle Indian drama, and the best part? The board is wide open, and the kings are just getting started.
Also read: Who Is Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus? The 14-Year-Old Who Defeated World Champion Gukesh D
