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In an unprecedented moment for Indian chess, India creates history by winning double gold at the Chess Olympiad 2024. The men’s and women’s teams both secured their maiden gold medals at the 45th edition of this prestigious event. This incredible achievement has positioned India as a rising powerhouse in global chess.
The Chess Olympiad 2024 saw outstanding performances by key players, including Gukesh D, Arjun Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh, all of whom contributed to this historic win. The tournament proved to be a defining moment in India’s chess journey, with both teams excelling and delivering gold medals for the first time in Olympiad history.
India’s Men Claim Gold at Chess Olympiad 2024
The men’s team delivered a remarkable performance at the Chess Olympiad 2024, culminating in a golden victory over Slovenia in the final round. Gukesh D led from the front, winning a crucial game against Vladimir Fedoseev on the top board. Gukesh’s victory, along with wins from Arjun Erigaisi and R Praggnanandhaa, secured a 3-0 win for India in the final match.
Throughout the tournament, the Indian men’s team remained undefeated, finishing with 21 points out of a possible 22. This dominant run included 10 wins and just one draw against Uzbekistan, a performance that hasn’t been seen before in Olympiad history. The men’s team not only brought home India’s first gold in the open section of the Chess Olympiad but also cemented the country’s growing influence in the international chess scene.
Gukesh’s Brilliant Win on the Top Board
Gukesh, playing on the top board, showcased his immense talent by defeating Vladimir Fedoseev. With the black pieces, Gukesh executed a technically flawless game, cementing his role as a key player in India’s golden campaign. His victory against Slovenia was crucial in bringing India its first-ever gold in the open section of the Chess Olympiad.
Arjun Erigaisi’s Impressive Performance
Arjun Erigaisi continued his spectacular run, winning with black against Jan Subeli on board three. Arjun’s mastery of the Centre Counter defense stunned his opponent, securing another important win for India. His consistent performance throughout the tournament played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Praggnanandhaa’s Decisive Win
On board two, R Praggnanandhaa delivered a crushing victory over Anton Demchenko, sealing India’s commanding 3-0 win over Slovenia. This result brought India’s total score to 21 points out of a possible 22, a remarkable achievement in the tournament.
India’s Women Complete the Double Gold at Chess Olympiad 2024
The Indian women’s team also shone brightly at the Chess Olympiad 2024, delivering a commanding 3.5-0.5 victory against Azerbaijan in the final round. This victory ensured India completed a rare double gold at the tournament, marking the women’s first-ever gold at the Olympiad.
Key contributions came from D Harika, who won on the top board, and Divya Deshmukh, who secured individual gold on board three with an outstanding score of 9.5/11. Vantika Agrawal also delivered an excellent performance, winning individual gold on board four with a score of 7.5/9. The women’s team finished the tournament having lost only one match, a testament to their consistency and strength throughout the Chess Olympiad 2024.
Harika, Divya, and Vantika Shine for the Women’s Team
D Harika displayed excellent technique, winning on the top board and providing a solid foundation for India’s overall success. Divya Deshmukh continued her incredible form, dominating her opponent on board three and securing individual gold with a score of 9.5/11. Vantika Agrawal also delivered a critical win on board four, clinching individual gold with a score of 7.5/9.
The women’s team lost only one match throughout the tournament, proving their strength and determination.
Individual Performances That Defined the Chess Olympiad 2024
This historic triumph was not only a team effort but also saw several Indian players excelling individually at the Chess Olympiad 2024.
Gukesh D, with a score of 9/10 on board one, delivered one of the greatest performances in Olympiad history. His stellar run earned him individual gold and saw his Elo rating rise to 2794, placing him 5th in the world rankings.
Arjun Erigaisi, playing on board three, had an exceptional tournament, scoring 10/11 and earning individual gold. His performance boosted his rating to 2797, making him the 3rd-ranked player in the world, surpassing Fabiano Caruana.
On the women’s side, Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agrawal won individual gold on their respective boards, showcasing the depth of talent within the Indian chess community.
A Historic Achievement at the Chess Olympiad 2024
The Chess Olympiad 2024 will forever be remembered as the tournament where India created history. With double gold in both the men’s and women’s categories, India has solidified its place as a major contender on the world chess stage. The outstanding performances of Gukesh, Arjun, Praggnanandhaa, Divya, and the rest of the team have set a new standard for Indian chess, making this a truly unforgettable moment.
As India celebrates this historic win at the Chess Olympiad 2024, the future of Indian chess looks brighter than ever. With such immense talent emerging, the world can expect more milestones from Indian chess in the years to come.
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