Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay praised Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa for making history as the first Indian to triumph in the prestigious Norway Chess tournament. The 20-year-old secured victory by defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round of the Norway Chess 2026 event in Oslo. Vijay commended Praggnanandhaa for his outstanding performance, which included defeating Magnus Carlsen, the reigning world No.1, twice and achieving four consecutive wins in a single campaign.
Praggnanandhaa’s win is a significant milestone for Indian chess, with the young talent having set records from a young age. He became the world’s youngest International Master at 10 and earned the Grandmaster title at just 12 years and 10 months, making him one of the youngest Grandmasters in chess history. His victory at the Norway Chess tournament, where he competed against some of the world’s top players, further solidifies his position among the global chess elite and serves as an inspiration for aspiring Indian players.
The Chief Minister highlighted Praggnanandhaa’s exceptional skills and determination, emphasizing the pride brought to Tamil Nadu and India through this historic achievement. Praggnanandhaa’s success story began with defeating Magnus Carlsen in an elite online tournament in 2022, followed by reaching the final of the FIDE World Cup the next year. His journey culminated in winning the Norway Chess title, a feat that underscores his talent and potential in the world of chess.
