Gukesh Outwits Magnus Carlsen Again, Takes Sole Lead After Grand Chess Tour Day 2

Indian chess sensation D Gukesh has once again asserted his dominance over Magnus Carlsen, the world’s top-ranked chess player, by defeating him in the sixth round of the Super United Rapid and Blitz Chess Tournament in Zagreb, part of the Grand Chess Tour 2025.

The high-stakes clash on Thursday, July 3, saw Gukesh calmly dismantle Carlsen’s strategy, capitalizing on a flawed plan in the final minutes of the game. After 49 moves, Gukesh sealed the victory—his fifth consecutive win of the tournament—bringing his total to 10 points out of a possible 12.

“The day clearly belonged to Gukesh, who showed nerves of steel and a sharp eye for tactical brilliance,” observers noted after the match.

Carlsen, who had enjoyed a seemingly better position after his king pawn opening, faltered in the middle game. Forced to trade two minor pieces for a rook and extra pawns, his aggressive approach backfired. Gukesh seized the opportunity and turned the tide in his favor, executing flawless counterplay despite the ticking clock.

This isn’t the first time Gukesh has bested the Norwegian maestro. Their rivalry heated up earlier this year when Gukesh defeated Carlsen in a Classical chess match at Norway Chess, prompting a frustrated reaction from the world champion, who slammed the table in disbelief.

With three rounds remaining in the rapid section, Gukesh holds a two-point lead over his closest competitor, Duda Jan-Krzysztof of Poland. Wesley So of the United States follows closely with 7 points, while Carlsen, Anish Giri (Netherlands), and Ivan Saric (Croatia) are tied with 6 points each.

Fellow Indian R. Praggnanandhaa played three solid draws against Caruana, Carlsen, and Giri but is still searching for his first win of the tournament. He sits tied for seventh with Fabiano Caruana at 5 points. Alireza Firouzja has 4 points, while Nodirbek Abdusattorov trails with 3.

Current Standings (After Round 6):

1. D Gukesh (IND) – 10 pts

2. Duda Jan-Krzysztof (POL) – 8 pts

3. Wesley So (USA) – 7 pts
   4–6. Carlsen (NOR), Anish Giri (NED), Ivan Saric (CRO) – 6 pts
   7–8. Praggnanandhaa (IND), Caruana (USA) – 5 pts

4. Alireza Firouzja (FRA) – 4 pts

5. Nodirbek Abdusattorov (UZB) – 3 pts

With Gukesh leading the pack and building momentum, all eyes will be on the final day of the rapid section to see if the young Indian star can maintain his edge and finish strong.