R Praggnanandhaa Makes a Remarkable Assertion: Magnus Carlsen Is Not Unbeatable

 

India's rising chess star, R Praggnanandhaa, despite falling short of his World Cup title aspirations against Magnus Carlsen in the final, emphasized in a recent interview that the five-time world champion from Norway is "far from unbeatable." Praggnanandhaa made waves with his remarkable performance at the World Cup in Baku, where he became the youngest-ever finalist, earning a spot in the 2024 Candidates tournament, with the winner set to challenge China's Ding Liren for the World Championship.

This 18-year-old Indian prodigy now ranks as the third-youngest player, following in the footsteps of Bobby Fischer and Carlsen, to qualify for the prestigious Candidates tournament. Praggnanandhaa acknowledges that while Carlsen is undoubtedly a formidable opponent, he is not impervious to defeat. The Indian sensation has indeed defeated Carlsen five times in online matches, but he has yet to secure a victory over the Norwegian world number one in a traditional board match.

Praggnanandhaa commented on Carlsen's strengths, saying, "He's definitely strong. But, he does lose games. It's just I think he's consistent in winning. Doesn't lose many, that's why. He's just strong, mentally and physically. Basically strong in everything."

Currently, Ian Nepomniachtchi, Fabiano Caruana, and Praggnanandhaa have secured their spots in the Candidates tournament. Five more spots remain up for grabs, with the final participants set to be determined by the end of the year.

Praggnanandhaa intends to approach the Candidates tournament without added pressure and treat it like any other chess competition. He emphasized, "I don't think it is going to be added pressure. I just want to take it as another tournament. If you think it's very important, then you start putting added pressure. I just want to play like how I play in the last three tournaments."

'World Cup final, a small step'

The impressive performance of Indian chess players at the World Cup, with four of them reaching the quarterfinals, has raised hopes of another world champion emerging from India, following in the footsteps of the five-time champion Viswanathan Anand.

Reflecting on this achievement, R Praggnanandhaa expressed his ambition, saying, "There is a lot more to achieve in chess for me. This is just one small step, but still a very good one."

Notably, Magnus Carlsen, the reigning world champion, has withdrawn from the competition to defend his title.

When asked whether Carlsen's absence would make the field less competitive, Praggnanandhaa responded, "Not really, everyone else is also very strong. It's not like it's going to be easy or anything. The Candidates is going to be a really strong event. It requires not only chess skills but also being in good physical and mental shape."

Praggnanandhaa emphasized the demanding nature of winning a world championship, stating, "To win a world championship, you need to be physically and mentally very, very strong. I don't think because Magnus won't be there it would make it easier. It would be very tough. I'm just hoping to give my best and see how it goes" regarding his preparation for the Candidates tournament.

'Badminton, long walk keep me fit'

R Praggnanandhaa, an avid fan of both badminton and cricket, often explores different sports when he's in Chennai to maintain his physical fitness. During tournaments, he adopts various strategies to alleviate stress, including going for long walks and engaging in self-talk for mental preparation.

He explained, "I try to play badminton when I'm in Chennai. During the tournament, I try to go for walks. One or another to keep myself in shape. Any sport which does not injure me, I play that. It might sound strange, but I talk to myself to prepare myself mentally. In a proper attitude, it works for me. It's different for everyone, so we have to find our own way in that. I try to be in the right shape."

Praggnanandhaa, a product of the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy, spoke about the positive influence of Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand on his confidence and development. He said, "It has helped me a lot. I have learned a lot discussing chess with him (Anand). Discussing chess, other than the technical aspects like talking about psychological things as well. In general, speaking to him gives you a lot of confidence. Knowing that you are working with a five-time world champion and one of the greatest of the game, he has helped me a lot through WACA."

Despite his hectic schedule after his impressive performance at the World Cup, Praggnanandhaa sees the positive impact on the popularity of chess in India. He acknowledges that more people recognize him now, and he believes this will benefit the game by attracting more young players and sponsors. While life has become busier, he remains focused on his chess preparation and aims to continue his successful journey.

Praggnanandhaa's journey has taken him to various places, including Delhi and Kolkata, where he is attending sports events and training camps, showcasing his rising prominence in the world of chess.