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R. Praggnanandhaa, after winning Tata Masters and securing a GCT Final spot, joins elite players like D. Gukesh and Viswanathan Anand in the Global Chess League Season 3 draft.
R Praggnanandhaa playing Jenga (X)
India’s chess prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa spends his free time playing Jenga, acknowledging that while chess requires focus, Jenga tests his nerves.
Chess in India has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years, justified by the country’s success in international tournaments.
Praggnanandhaa recently won the Tata Masters, underscoring his burgeoning rivalry with World Champion D. Gukesh as they competed in the decisive tiebreaker round.
Praggnanandhaa unwound by playing Jenga on Thursday. Sharing a video on X, he commented, “Chess needs focus, but Jenga tests your nerves too. Great to unwind and share some laughs with friends during free time.”
Recently, Praggnanandhaa secured his spot in the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT) Final in Brazil by finishing as the runner-up at the 2025 Sinquefield Cup, solidifying his position among the world’s top players.
Praggnanandhaa’s rapid ascent has been remarkable. Known for his daring style and ability to compete against top players, he has become a prominent figure in Indian sports. His progress to the GCT Final signifies not only personal achievement but also highlights India’s growing influence in international chess.
In recent years, the young player has consistently impressed against legends like Magnus Carlsen, gaining widespread admiration. As he enters the season-ending finale, expectations are high, and fans hope he can achieve another milestone.
Praggnanandhaa is part of the Global Chess League Season 3 draft, set to be held in Mumbai on Friday. With 36 players in the pool, the 20-year-old will be one of the Icon players in the draft, with reigning World Champion Gukesh leading the Icon Boards.
Praggananandhaa Include Five-Time World Champion Viswanathan Anand, Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, Alireza Firouzja, MAXIME VACIER-LAGRAVE, Arjun Erigaisi, Four-Time World Champion Hou Yifan, and World Cup Finalist Koneru Humpy.
(With inputs from IANS)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin… Read More
September 25, 2025, 19:39 is
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