New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) — Indian chess sensation R Praggnanandhaa has secured a place in the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT) Final in Brazil after finishing runner-up at the 2025 Sinquefield Cup, further solidifying his reputation among the world’s elite.
The 19-year-old Chennai Grandmaster’s achievement drew widespread acclaim, with Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani among the first to congratulate him.
“Heartiest congratulations to R Praggnanandhaa on qualifying for the Grand Chess Tour Final in Brazil! What an achievement! At just 19, your journey inspires millions of young Indians to dream big and play bold. Bharat is proud of you,” Adani wrote on social media.
Praggnanandhaa’s meteoric rise has made him one of India’s most recognizable sporting figures. Known for his fearless play and ability to unsettle legends such as Magnus Carlsen, he continues to inspire a new generation of chess enthusiasts. His qualification for the GCT Final is both a personal milestone and a reflection of India’s growing influence in the global chess arena.
The season-ending finale, scheduled from September 27 to October 3 in Brazil, will feature classical, rapid, and blitz formats. Praggnanandhaa will battle against Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Fabiano Caruana, and Levon Aronian for the championship title and a share of the USD 350,000 prize pool. France’s Alireza Firouzja is the defending champion.
As Indian chess experiences a remarkable resurgence, Praggnanandhaa has emerged as the face of this new wave. With the nation’s hopes pinned on him, he now aims to become the first Indian to lift the coveted Grand Chess Tour crown.
