ZAGREB, Croatia (Diya TV) — Indian chess prodigy D. Gukesh stunned World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen once again, this time in the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia tournament. The reigning world champion defeated Carlsen in their much-anticipated rematch on Thursday, marking his fifth consecutive victory in the Grand Chess Tour event.
Carlsen, the five-time world champion and former long-time world No. 1, was outplayed in Round 6 of the rapid section. Gukesh, who was playing with the Black pieces, displayed remarkable poise and control in a game that saw the Norwegian struggle with both position and time pressure. This win followed Gukesh’s victory over Carlsen last month at the Norway Chess tournament, where Carlsen reacted with visible frustration after his rare classical loss.
Although Carlsen entered the match seeking revenge, it was Gukesh who dictated the pace. The 18-year-old arrived at the board early, calm and composed. Carlsen opened with the English, and after 18…Nh5 19. Bf2! The Norwegian appeared to have the advantage. But Gukesh struck back with 26…d5, seizing the initiative. As the game progressed, Carlsen’s position crumbled under time pressure, and he resigned after 49 moves.
With that win, Gukesh moved to the top of the standings with 10 points from six games. In the Grand Chess Tour’s rapid format, each win counts for two points. The blitz games, which begin next, offer one point per victory.
Earlier this week, Carlsen had referred to Gukesh as “one of the presumably weaker players” in the tournament. The comment sparked debate among fans and analysts, especially given Gukesh’s growing reputation. On Thursday, the Indian teen responded the best way possible—on the board.
“This isn’t just another loss. It’s a convincing one,” said former world champion Garry Kasparov during commentary. “Gukesh didn’t just capitalize on mistakes—he played better.”
Despite being known primarily as a classical chess player, Gukesh has adapted quickly to the rapid format. His time management and tactical awareness have impressed observers throughout the event.
“I’ve learned that when my back is against the wall, I do everything I can,” Gukesh said after the match.
Gukesh began the day with a loss to Jan-Krzysztof Duda. But he bounced back with strong wins against Alireza Firouzja and India’s R. Praggnanandhaa before defeating Carlsen. His ability to rebound from early setbacks has been a highlight of his tournament performance.
“I wasn’t too disheartened after the first-round loss,” Gukesh said. “Duda got a good position and played well.”
Carlsen, meanwhile, had a mixed day. He managed a hard-fought win over Wesley So but drew against Ivan Saric and Duda. The Norwegian now trails Gukesh by four points heading into the blitz rounds.
Garry Kasparov, who founded the Grand Chess Tour, praised Gukesh’s mental strength and composure under pressure. “His resilience reminds me of computers,” Kasparov said. “You lose your concentration against him, and it’s over. Gukesh is the kind of player you have to beat many times.”
The latest win reinforces Gukesh’s standing as one of the world’s top young players. He now leads the field in Zagreb and continues to build momentum heading into the final phase of the tournament.
Gukesh’s performance in Croatia proves he is more than just a classical specialist. He’s competing—and winning—against the world’s best in faster formats, too. With five straight wins and the tournament lead, he is sending a clear message to the global chess community.
As the Grand Chess Tour continues, all eyes will be on the teenage world champion. With each match, he shows that his rise is no fluke—and that he belongs among the game’s elite.
