World Champion D Gukesh defeats World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in Zagreb, extends winning streak and strengthens lead with dominant performance
Zagreb [Croatia], July 4: Reigning world champion D Gukesh delivered yet another sensational upset against World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb, notching his fifth consecutive victory and solidifying his position as the sole leader of the tournament with 10 points. With his latest triumph over Carlsen—who once again blundered from a favorable position—Gukesh has firmly staked his claim as one of the most formidable forces in the global chess arena.
Gukesh Extends Lead, Carlsen Falters Again
Facing off on Day 2 of the tournament, Carlsen—playing with the white pieces—initially appeared to dominate the board, creating openings and applying pressure on the young Indian grandmaster. However, the turning point came when Carlsen pushed his b-pawn to b4, a critical error that shifted momentum in Gukesh’s favor. Seizing the opportunity with poise, Gukesh countered decisively, forcing Carlsen into a defensive posture.
With less than 30 seconds left on his clock and no clear escape in sight, Carlsen resigned and shook Gukesh’s hand—avoiding eye contact and showing no emotion as he conceded the loss.
A Repeat Upset and a Statement Victory
This wasn’t the first time Gukesh outplayed the Norwegian superstar. Just last month, Gukesh stunned Carlsen in Round 6 of the Norway Chess 2025, delivering one of the biggest shocks of that tournament. With today’s victory, Gukesh has reinforced that win wasn’t a fluke—it’s now a pattern.
Chess legend Garry Kasparov, who was providing live commentary, didn’t mince words.
“Now we can question Magnus’ domination because this is not just his second loss to Gukesh—it’s a convincing loss,” Kasparov said, criticizing Carlsen’s fateful b4 move.
Gukesh Reflects on the Win and Tournament Momentum
Despite a shaky start to the match, Gukesh recovered swiftly and methodically dismantled Carlsen’s position.
“Beating Magnus is always special, and this gives a bit more confidence,” Gukesh said after the match. “I had a horrible opening.”
With Carlsen trailing with just six points and Jan-Krzysztof Duda now the closest threat at eight, Gukesh holds a two-point lead going into the final day of action in Zagreb. If he maintains this form, he is poised to claim one of the biggest rapid and blitz titles of his career.
Calm Under Pressure, Rising With Confidence
Carlsen’s subdued resignation marked a stark contrast to Gukesh’s quiet confidence, a reflection of a shift in the global chess hierarchy. While Carlsen’s dominance has long been undisputed, Gukesh’s consistent performances against the Norwegian suggest a new era may be taking shape.