Praggnanandhaa Ends Grand Chess Tour Rapid Section in Disappointing Last Position

New Delhi: R Praggnanandhaa faced a tough challenge at the Saint Louis Rapid and Blitz Chess Tournament, finishing last in the rapid section of the competition. Known for his remarkable talent and strategic prowess on the chessboard, Praggnanandhaa struggled to find his form in this prestigious event, marking a rare setback in his otherwise promising career.

The tournament began on a difficult note for the young Grandmaster, with early rounds proving challenging. Over the first two days, Praggnanandhaa managed only three draws and suffered three losses, leaving him with a daunting task as he approached the final day of the rapid section. Unfortunately, the third day continued in a similar vein, offering little relief for the Indian chess sensation.

In the seventh round, Praggnanandhaa went up against Lenier Dominguez, a seasoned player from the United States. Despite his best efforts, Praggnanandhaa was unable to overcome Dominguez, further complicating his position in the tournament standings. His struggles persisted in the eighth round when he faced Hikaru Nakamura, another formidable American opponent known for his aggressive and tactical play. Nakamura’s victory added to Praggnanandhaa’s woes, pushing him further down the rankings.

The final round saw Praggnanandhaa take on Alireza Firouzja of France. While he managed to secure a draw in this match, it was insufficient to elevate his standing, leaving him with just four points out of a possible 18. This result was significantly below his usual standard, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of competitive chess, where even the most talented players can face unexpected challenges. Despite this setback, Praggnanandhaa’s determination and skill ensure that he remains a strong contender in future tournaments.