Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay congratulated Indian Chess R Praggnanandhaa for his Grand Chess Tour 2026 title win, saying that it is a recognition of his extraordinary talent and unwavering perseverance.
Staging a remarkable comeback, Praggnanandhaa went from trailing 3-9 in the classical phase to winning the title against the US’s Fabiano Caruana on Thursday. The official handle of the CMO Tamil Nadu posted, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the young Grandmaster from Tamil Nadu, Mr. Praggnanandhaa, who has created history by becoming the first Indian to win the champion’s title at the Grand Chess Tour 2026 held in St. Louis, USA.”
Wishing Praggnanandhaa continued success in achieving many more milestones on the global stage, the CM added, “Competing against the world’s top players with remarkable mental fortitude and strategic brilliance, his victory in securing the champion’s title is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary talent and unwavering perseverance. This magnificent triumph not only instills new hope and inspiration in the younger generation but also brings immense pride to Tamil Nadu and India.”
The Tamil Nadu champ defeated in the title clash, 15-13, despite trailing at the end of the two classical games. In the first rapid game, the Indian won 4-0, and then followed it with a win in the second rapid game as well by 4-0, making it 11-9 in his favour. The first blitz game was a draw, bringing the score to 12-10, and the drama was heightened as Fabiano narrowed the winning score in the second level. Praggnanandhaa won the third rapid game, bringing the lead to 14-12, and drew the final game securing a memorable win.
Praggnanandhaa, USA’s Wesley So, USA’s Fabiano Caruana and Vincent Keymer were the four players taking part in the Grand Chess Tour finale from August 22-27.
The Grand Chess Tour 2026 is a six-tour affair consisting of Super Rapid and Blitz Poland, Superbet Rapid & Blitz Romania, SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia, Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz, the Sinquefield Cup, and finally the Grand Chess Tour Finals.
The Indian Grandmaster was the leading point-getter in the Sinquefield Cup alongside the US’s Wesley So, with each scoring 5.5 points. His excellent performance in the Sinquefield Cup and the win in the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz competition earned him a spot in the GCT Finals.