The Magnus Carlsen-Hens Neimann controversy isn't unknown. Carlsen, the five-time world chess champion, was sued for $100mn by fellow chess player&nbsp;Niemann after the former had withdrawn from&nbsp;Sinquefield Cup last September and hinted at Neimann being a cheat. After this, Carlsen even made it clear that he won't play against Neimann; with the latter filing a lawsuit against the veteran player, Chess.com and others (of libel, slander and unlawful boycott and tortious interference of Niemann’s business).

Now, the Carlsen vs Neimann legal saga has got murkier with the latter accusing Carlsen of paying another grandmaster Aryan&nbsp;Tari to shout “Ukse Hans” meaning&nbsp;“Cheater Hans” during the&nbsp;closing ceremony of the European Club Cup on October 9, 2022.&nbsp;

The latest submission to the district court of Missouri states, "To ensure that he inflicted the maximum possible damage to Niemann and his career, Carlsen, in the days and weeks that followed the Sinquefield Cup, deployed a more covert defamatory campaign against Niemann, designed to bolster Carlsen’s more high-profile defamatory accusations within the chess community."

"In Carlsen’s malicious defamatory campaign against Niemann, Carlsen went as far as paying Aryan Tari €300 to scream ‘Ukse [sic] Hans’, Norwegian for ‘Cheater Hans’, from the stands at the closing ceremony of the European Club Cup on October 9, 2022, which was attended by many of the world’s most prominent chess players and heard by many of its fans."

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It further adds, "Shortly thereafter, the entire Norwegian chess team, including Carlsen, were observed publicly chanting ‘Ukse [sic] Hans’ in bars and the streets of the Austrian town where the European Club Cup was held. Any reasonable listener of these statements would interpret them as reiterating Carlsen’s false accusation that Niemann cheated when he defeated Carlsen at the Sinquefield Cup."

Thus, the Carlsen-Neimann controversy has darkened further with the latest accusation from the 19-year-old. Earlier, Carlsen and Chess.com had accused him of cheating to which the youngster had admitted that he cheated twice, when he was 12 and 16, but never after that.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see how Chess.com and Carlsen respond to the latest allegations from Neimann.

The Magnus Carlsen-Hens Neimann controversy isn't unknown. Carlsen, the five-time world chess champion, was sued for $100mn by fellow chess player Niemann after the former had withdrawn from Sinquefield Cup last September and hinted at Neimann being a cheat.

The Magnus Carlsen-Hens Neimann controversy isn't unknown. Carlsen, the five-time world chess champion, was sued for $100mn by fellow chess player Niemann after the former had withdrawn from Sinquefield Cup last September and hinted at Neimann being a cheat. After this, Carlsen even made it clear that he won't play against Neimann; with the latter filing a lawsuit against the veteran player, Chess.com and others (of libel, slander and unlawful boycott and tortious interference of Niemann’s business). Now, the Carlsen vs Neimann legal saga has got murkier with the latter accusing Carlsen of paying another grandmaster Aryan Tari to shout “Ukse Hans” meaning “Cheater Hans” during the closing ceremony of the European Club Cup on October 9, 2022. The latest submission to the district court of Missouri states, "To ensure that he inflicted the maximum possible damage to Niemann and his career, Carlsen, in the days and weeks that followed the Sinquefield Cup, deployed a more covert defamatory campaign against Niemann, designed to bolster Carlsen’s more high-profile defamatory accusations within the chess community." "In Carlsen’s malicious defamatory campaign against Niemann, Carlsen went as far as paying Aryan Tari €300 to scream ‘Ukse [sic] Hans’, Norwegian for ‘Cheater Hans’, from the stands at the closing ceremony of the European Club Cup on October 9, 2022, which was attended by many of the world’s most prominent chess players and heard by many of its fans." Also read: Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy after withdrawing from Australian Open, sets eye on a 2024 return It further adds, "Shortly thereafter, the entire Norwegian chess team, including Carlsen, were observed publicly chanting ‘Ukse [sic] Hans’ in bars and the streets of the Austrian town where the European Club Cup was held. Any reasonable listener of these statements would interpret them as reiterating Carlsen’s false accusation that Niemann cheated when he defeated Carlsen at the Sinquefield Cup." Thus, the Carlsen-Neimann controversy has darkened further with the latest accusation from the 19-year-old. Earlier, Carlsen and Chess.com had accused him of cheating to which the youngster had admitted that he cheated twice, when he was 12 and 16, but never after that. It will be interesting to see how Chess.com and Carlsen respond to the latest allegations from Neimann.

Wait, what? Magnus Carlsen accused by Hans Niemann of paying GM Aryan Tari to shout ‘Cheat Hans’

India has got its 79th Grandmaster (GM) in a 16-year-old Pranesh M from Tamil Nadu. After beating GM Frode Olav Olsen Urkedal of Norway, Pranesh attained the required 2500 ELO ratings and won the Rilton Cup in the final round to claim the title. With this, he also becomes India’s first Grandmaster of this year. In a competition that had 136 players representing 29 national federations, Pranesh stood first while his compatriot R Raja Rithvik – a Grandmaster himself, finished eighth with six points.

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BREAKING News: Pranesh M becomes India's 79th Grandmaster 
 
The 16-year-old from Tamil Nadu beat GM Frode Olav Olsen Urkedal🇳🇴 in the final round to win <a href="https://twitter.com/RiltonCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RiltonCup</a> 2022-23, cross 2500 in the live ratings and become India's first GM of 2023. 
➡️<a href="https://t.co/wK0YdzUN0Q">https://t.co/wK0YdzUN0Q</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chess</a> <a href="https://t.co/bBf145pFMM">pic.twitter.com/bBf145pFMM</a>
— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChessbaseIndia/status/1611072578541477899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He won his first norm at the 18th Delhi GM Open in January 2020 and claimed his second norm at the Sunway Sitges International Chess Festival in Spain in December 2021. The following year, in November 2022, Pranesh won his third norm at the Asian Continental Chess Championship; and this time in Stockholm, Sweden, after finally crossing the required ELO mark, he became a Grandmaster, India’s 79th in total.

While he received a lot of praise for his performance on social media, a special mention from India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Champion, Viswanathan Anand was special. Anand, a Chess veteran not only in India but across world, tweeted, “Congratulations to GM Pranesh on an excellent performance. He won with an incredible score. We have added three grandmasters in quick succession...”

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Congratulations to GM Pranesh on an excellent performance. He won with an incredible score. We have added three grandmasters in quick succession. A special mention to Koustav Chatterjee for winning the GM title at the National Chess championship
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) <a href="https://twitter.com/vishy64theking/status/1611222082624565252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Pranesh’s coach, RB Ramesh also heaped praises on him saying, “Pranesh is a very practical player. Hard working, raw talent… his openings are not that good but his middle-game and end-game skills are quite good.”

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Pranesh is 16 years old, mother working in anganwadi at Karaikudi serving poor children. Humble parents, lots of sacrifices. 🙏. He scored 7 wins in a row for a 2775 performance <a href="https://t.co/OSPDz9IhfS">pic.twitter.com/OSPDz9IhfS</a>
— Ramesh RB (@Rameshchess) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rameshchess/status/1611037526009221120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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With 6.8 circuit points Pranesh is now the early leader of the FIDE Circuit. For those who qualify for the 2024 FIDE Candidates, they must accumulate the most points by the end of the year.

India has got its 79th Grandmaster (GM) in a 16-year-old Pranesh M from Tamil Nadu. After beating GM Frode Olav Olsen Urkedal of Norway, Pranesh attained the required 2500 ELO ratings and won the Rilton Cup in the final round to claim the title.

India has got its 79th Grandmaster (GM) in a 16-year-old Pranesh M from Tamil Nadu. After beating GM Frode Olav Olsen Urkedal of Norway, Pranesh attained the required 2500 ELO ratings and won the Rilton Cup in the final round to claim the title. With this, he also becomes India’s first Grandmaster of this year. In a competition that had 136 players representing 29 national federations, Pranesh stood first while his compatriot R Raja Rithvik – a Grandmaster himself, finished eighth with six points. BREAKING News: Pranesh M becomes India's 79th Grandmaster The 16-year-old from Tamil Nadu beat GM Frode Olav Olsen Urkedal🇳🇴 in the final round to win @RiltonCup 2022-23, cross 2500 in the live ratings and become India's first GM of 2023. ➡️https://t.co/wK0YdzUN0Q #Chess pic.twitter.com/bBf145pFMM — ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) January 5, 2023 × He won his first norm at the 18th Delhi GM Open in January 2020 and claimed his second norm at the Sunway Sitges International Chess Festival in Spain in December 2021. The following year, in November 2022, Pranesh won his third norm at the Asian Continental Chess Championship; and this time in Stockholm, Sweden, after finally crossing the required ELO mark, he became a Grandmaster, India’s 79th in total. While he received a lot of praise for his performance on social media, a special mention from India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Champion, Viswanathan Anand was special. Anand, a Chess veteran not only in India but across world, tweeted, “Congratulations to GM Pranesh on an excellent performance. He won with an incredible score. We have added three grandmasters in quick succession...” Congratulations to GM Pranesh on an excellent performance. He won with an incredible score. We have added three grandmasters in quick succession. A special mention to Koustav Chatterjee for winning the GM title at the National Chess championship — Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) January 6, 2023 × Pranesh’s coach, RB Ramesh also heaped praises on him saying, “Pranesh is a very practical player. Hard working, raw talent… his openings are not that good but his middle-game and end-game skills are quite good.” ALSO READ: Steve Smith clears air on 'early retirement' talks, says he's enjoying his game and not going anywhere Pranesh is 16 years old, mother working in anganwadi at Karaikudi serving poor children. Humble parents, lots of sacrifices. 🙏. He scored 7 wins in a row for a 2775 performance pic.twitter.com/OSPDz9IhfS — Ramesh RB (@Rameshchess) January 5, 2023 × With 6.8 circuit points Pranesh is now the early leader of the FIDE Circuit. For those who qualify for the 2024 FIDE Candidates, they must accumulate the most points by the end of the year.

Chess: Tamil Nadu's Pranesh M becomes India's 79th Grandmaster after winning Rilton Cup

Iranian chess player Sara Khadem arrived in Spain on Tuesday after receiving what a source close to her said were warnings not to return to Iran for competing without a hijab at an international tournament in Kazakhstan.

WION Fineprint: Iranian chess player warned not to return after competing without Hijab

An Iranian&nbsp;chess&nbsp;player arrived in Spain on Tuesday after receiving what a source close to her said were warnings not to return to Iran for competing without a hijab at an international tournament in Kazakhstan. Sara Khadem, born in 1997, took part in last week's FIDE World Rapid and Blitz&nbsp;Chess&nbsp;Championships in Almaty without the hijab - a headscarf mandatory under Iran's strict dress codes. The source, who did not want to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Khadem subsequently received multiple phone calls in which individuals warned her against returning home after the tournament, while others said she should come back, promising to "solve her problem".

The source also said Khadem's relatives and parents, who are in Iran, had also received threats, without giving further details. Iran's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the case. Khadem, who is also known as Sarasadat Khademalsharieh, arrived in Spain on Tuesday, the source said. She has not responded to Reuters request for comment. Newspapers including Le Figaro and El Pais reported last week that Khadem would not be returning to Iran and moving to Spain. The phone calls led to organisers deciding to provide security with the cooperation of Kazakh police, resulting in four bodyguards being stationed outside Khadem's hotel room, the source said.

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Iran has been swept by demonstrations against the country's clerical leadership since mid-September, when 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini died in the custody of morality police who detained her for "inappropriate attire." Laws enforcing mandatory hijab wearing have become a flashpoint during the unrest, with a string of sportswomen competing overseas appearing without their headscarves in public. Khadem is ranked 804 in the world, according to the International&nbsp;Chess&nbsp;Federation website. The website for the Dec. 25-30 event listed her as a participant in both the Rapid and Blitz competitions. The protests mark one of the boldest challenges to Iran's leadership since its 1979 revolution and have drawn in Iranians from all walks of life.

Women have played a prominent role, removing and in some cases burning headscarves, while protesters have taken heart from what they have seen as shows of support from both female and male Iranian athletes.

An Iranian chess player arrived in Spain on Tuesday after receiving what a source close to her said were warnings not to return to Iran for competing without a hijab at an international tournament in Kazakhstan.

An Iranian chess player arrived in Spain on Tuesday after receiving what a source close to her said were warnings not to return to Iran for competing without a hijab at an international tournament in Kazakhstan. Sara Khadem, born in 1997, took part in last week's FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in Almaty without the hijab - a headscarf mandatory under Iran's strict dress codes. The source, who did not want to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Khadem subsequently received multiple phone calls in which individuals warned her against returning home after the tournament, while others said she should come back, promising to "solve her problem". The source also said Khadem's relatives and parents, who are in Iran, had also received threats, without giving further details. Iran's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the case. Khadem, who is also known as Sarasadat Khademalsharieh, arrived in Spain on Tuesday, the source said. She has not responded to Reuters request for comment. Newspapers including Le Figaro and El Pais reported last week that Khadem would not be returning to Iran and moving to Spain. The phone calls led to organisers deciding to provide security with the cooperation of Kazakh police, resulting in four bodyguards being stationed outside Khadem's hotel room, the source said. Also read: Bizarre! Masters invite sent to the wrong Scott Stallings Iran has been swept by demonstrations against the country's clerical leadership since mid-September, when 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini died in the custody of morality police who detained her for "inappropriate attire." Laws enforcing mandatory hijab wearing have become a flashpoint during the unrest, with a string of sportswomen competing overseas appearing without their headscarves in public. Khadem is ranked 804 in the world, according to the International Chess Federation website. The website for the Dec. 25-30 event listed her as a participant in both the Rapid and Blitz competitions. The protests mark one of the boldest challenges to Iran's leadership since its 1979 revolution and have drawn in Iranians from all walks of life. Women have played a prominent role, removing and in some cases burning headscarves, while protesters have taken heart from what they have seen as shows of support from both female and male Iranian athletes.

Iranian chess player was warned not to return to country following her competing without hijab: Source

Iranian women chess players Sara Khadem and Atousa Pourkashiyan have reportedly competed in an international tournament without a hijab joining the list of other Iranian sportswomen who abandoned the mandatory headscarf since the anti-government protests began.

Iranian chess players Sara Khadem, Atousa Pourkashiyan abandon hijab while playing

"2022 has been an extraordinary year for Indian Chess, as the country has 77 Grandmasters, a lot of whom are from Chennai" said Indian Chess Legend Vishwanathan Anand. To earn the Grandmaster title, one has to secure three Grandmaster norms and surpass 2500 ELO points marks. Anand recalled how&nbsp;India hosted 1700 top players from across 185 nations, as part of the 44th&nbsp;FIDE International Chess Olympiad held in Chennai, earlier this year. Anand was speaking at an event organized by the Tamil Nadu Government, where it was announced that corporates and individual donors could adopt and maintain Government-run schools, as part of the "Namma School"(Our School) initiative.&nbsp;

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As the brand ambassador for the cause, Anand said that building confidence among school students requires enormous investment of providing education, exposure, nutritious meals, sports activities, infrastructure etc. He said that the Government alone cannot develop schools on its own and urged alumni of Government schools and global diaspora to join hands and make a difference. "As in Chess, let our youth excel in every walk of life" Anand said from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India's Chess capital.&nbsp;

According to the Tamil Nadu Government, donors and companies willing to donate to Government schools can access a state-wide database that covers nearly 38,000 schools. Donors can either adopt the entire school or take care of specific needs such as computers, infrastructure, furniture etc, as per the requirements of the school, highlighted in the database. They said that the before and after pictures of the work carried out with donor funds would also be updated on the 'Namma School' portal.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the launch of this initiative, leading corporates and individuals from Tamil Nadu donated more than Rs.50cr or $6.04million. The initiative was launched by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and senior Government officials.

"2022 has been an extraordinary year for Indian Chess, as the country has 77 Grandmasters, a lot of whom are from Chennai" said Indian Chess Legend Vishwanathan Anand.

"2022 has been an extraordinary year for Indian Chess, as the country has 77 Grandmasters, a lot of whom are from Chennai" said Indian Chess Legend Vishwanathan Anand. To earn the Grandmaster title, one has to secure three Grandmaster norms and surpass 2500 ELO points marks. Anand recalled how India hosted 1700 top players from across 185 nations, as part of the 44th FIDE International Chess Olympiad held in Chennai, earlier this year. Anand was speaking at an event organized by the Tamil Nadu Government, where it was announced that corporates and individual donors could adopt and maintain Government-run schools, as part of the "Namma School"(Our School) initiative. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war As the brand ambassador for the cause, Anand said that building confidence among school students requires enormous investment of providing education, exposure, nutritious meals, sports activities, infrastructure etc. He said that the Government alone cannot develop schools on its own and urged alumni of Government schools and global diaspora to join hands and make a difference. "As in Chess, let our youth excel in every walk of life" Anand said from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India's Chess capital. According to the Tamil Nadu Government, donors and companies willing to donate to Government schools can access a state-wide database that covers nearly 38,000 schools. Donors can either adopt the entire school or take care of specific needs such as computers, infrastructure, furniture etc, as per the requirements of the school, highlighted in the database. They said that the before and after pictures of the work carried out with donor funds would also be updated on the 'Namma School' portal. On the occasion of the launch of this initiative, leading corporates and individuals from Tamil Nadu donated more than Rs.50cr or $6.04million. The initiative was launched by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and senior Government officials.

With 77 Grandmasters, 2022 an extraordinary year for Indian chess, says Vishwanathan Anand

India's woman Grandmaster Priyanka Nutakki was expelled from the World Junior Chess Championship being held in Italy currently for having a pair of ear buds in her jacket pocket, according to the world chess federation (FIDE).

The 20-year-old Priyanka (ELO rating 2326) was found to have a pair of ear buds -- a banned item in chess tournaments -- in her jacket during a routine check. "While there is no indication of foul play on her part, earbuds are strictly forbidden at the playing hall. Carrying these devices during a game is a violation of fair-play policies, and it is penalised with the loss of the game and expulsion from the tournament," FIDE said. 
The point scored by Nutakki in the sixth round was awarded to her rival -- Govhar Beydullayeva.

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The tournament Appeals Committee reconfirmed the expulsion decision on an appeal filed by the Indian team. 
Indian team officials could not be reached for a reaction. Nutakki had scored four points in the first five rounds with three wins and two draws.

India's woman Grandmaster Priyanka Nutakki was expelled from the World Junior Chess Championship being held in Italy currently for having a pair of ear buds in her jacket pocket, according to the world chess federation (FIDE).

India's woman Grandmaster Priyanka Nutakki was expelled from the World Junior Chess Championship being held in Italy currently for having a pair of ear buds in her jacket pocket, according to the world chess federation (FIDE). The 20-year-old Priyanka (ELO rating 2326) was found to have a pair of ear buds -- a banned item in chess tournaments -- in her jacket during a routine check. "While there is no indication of foul play on her part, earbuds are strictly forbidden at the playing hall. Carrying these devices during a game is a violation of fair-play policies, and it is penalised with the loss of the game and expulsion from the tournament," FIDE said. The point scored by Nutakki in the sixth round was awarded to her rival -- Govhar Beydullayeva. ALSO READ | 16-year-old Indian grandmaster D Gukesh stuns Magnus Carlsen in Aimchess Rapid chess The tournament Appeals Committee reconfirmed the expulsion decision on an appeal filed by the Indian team. Indian team officials could not be reached for a reaction. Nutakki had scored four points in the first five rounds with three wins and two draws.

India's woman grandmaster Priyanka Nutakki expelled from World Junior Chess Championship

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh upset Magnus Carlsen in the ninth round of the preliminary phase of the Aimchess Rapid online chess tournament, becoming the youngest to beat the world champion.

The 16-year-old from Chennai beat the world No.1 with white pieces early on Monday to move up to third position behind Poland's Jan-Krzystof Duda (25 points) and Shakhriyar Mamedyarov (Azerbaijan, 23 points) with 21 points after the 12th round.

Gukesh's 29-move dismantling of the world champion comes a day after his 19-year-old compatriot Arjun Erigaisi had posted a maiden win over the world champion.

"Gukesh just became the youngest player to ever beat Magnus after he became WC! Hats off to the 16-Year-Old Indian superstar," Meltwater Champions Chess Tour of which the Aimchess Rapid event is a part of, said on its Twitter feed.

Gukesh is 16 years 4 months 20 days while the previous record before his win was R Praggnanandhaa's 39-move victory over Carlsen in the Airthings Masters in February. Pragg was 16 years 6 months and 10 days old when he defeated the world No.1.

The Indian on his part, was quoted as saying after the momentous win: "Beating Magnus is always special, but I was not very proud of that game."

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Gukesh suffered a setback in round 10 when he lost to Duda but bounced back superbly to beat Mamedyarova and Eric Hansen in the next two rounds.

Erigaisi has as many points (21) as Gukesh and is in fourth as the race for the spot in the knockout phase gets closer. 
The 19-year-old Erigaisi began the third day of the preliminaries with a loss to Mamedyarov before scoring over Hansen and talented German Vincent Keymer.

However, a defeat at the hands of fellow Indian GM Aditya Mittal in the 12th round spoiled what would have been a good day. Gukesh continued what has been a superb year so far for the young Indian players as he became the third one to put it across Carlsen after Praggnanandhaa and Erigaisi, who did so at last month's Julius Baer Generation Cup online event.

Even as Gukesh and Erigaisi underlined their talent and scored wins, the other Indians-Vidit Santhosh Gujrathi, Aditya Mittal and P Harikrishna- failed to impress.

Gujrathi lies in 10th spot and out of the qualification range for the knockout with 14 points. He lost two of his four games, to Duda and Hansen. He drew against Mamedyarov before finishing the day with a victory over Keymer.

Mittal (12 points) is in 12th place. He upset Erigaisi in round 12 after having lost his three previous games to Anish Giri (the Netherlands), Richard Rapport and David Anton Guijjaro in rounds 9, 10 and 11 respectively.

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Harikrishna is 15th after 12 rounds of play and is out of contention to reach the quarterfinals. To his credit, he did however, held Carlsen to a draw in the 10th round in a 76-move match.

World champion Carlsen is in the fifth spot after having a quiet day. After losing to Gukesh, he drew against Harikrishna and world rapid champion Nodirkbek Abdusattorov and ended with a win over Daniel Naroditsky.

Gujrathi had an impressive win over world rapid champion Abdusattorov but draws against Grandelius and Naroditsky and a defeat at the hands of Carlsen pegged him back.

The Aimchess Rapid tournament is part of the Meltwater Champions tour and features 16 players including five from India. After the 15-round preliminaries, the top eight qualify for the knockouts.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh upset Magnus Carlsen in the ninth round of the preliminary phase of the Aimchess Rapid online chess tournament, becoming the youngest to beat the world champion.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh upset Magnus Carlsen in the ninth round of the preliminary phase of the Aimchess Rapid online chess tournament, becoming the youngest to beat the world champion. The 16-year-old from Chennai beat the world No.1 with white pieces early on Monday to move up to third position behind Poland's Jan-Krzystof Duda (25 points) and Shakhriyar Mamedyarov (Azerbaijan, 23 points) with 21 points after the 12th round. Gukesh's 29-move dismantling of the world champion comes a day after his 19-year-old compatriot Arjun Erigaisi had posted a maiden win over the world champion. "Gukesh just became the youngest player to ever beat Magnus after he became WC! Hats off to the 16-Year-Old Indian superstar," Meltwater Champions Chess Tour of which the Aimchess Rapid event is a part of, said on its Twitter feed. Gukesh is 16 years 4 months 20 days while the previous record before his win was R Praggnanandhaa's 39-move victory over Carlsen in the Airthings Masters in February. Pragg was 16 years 6 months and 10 days old when he defeated the world No.1. The Indian on his part, was quoted as saying after the momentous win: "Beating Magnus is always special, but I was not very proud of that game." Also Read: World Cup boom pushes some Qatar residents out of homes as rents skyrocket Gukesh suffered a setback in round 10 when he lost to Duda but bounced back superbly to beat Mamedyarova and Eric Hansen in the next two rounds. Erigaisi has as many points (21) as Gukesh and is in fourth as the race for the spot in the knockout phase gets closer. The 19-year-old Erigaisi began the third day of the preliminaries with a loss to Mamedyarov before scoring over Hansen and talented German Vincent Keymer. However, a defeat at the hands of fellow Indian GM Aditya Mittal in the 12th round spoiled what would have been a good day. Gukesh continued what has been a superb year so far for the young Indian players as he became the third one to put it across Carlsen after Praggnanandhaa and Erigaisi, who did so at last month's Julius Baer Generation Cup online event. Even as Gukesh and Erigaisi underlined their talent and scored wins, the other Indians-Vidit Santhosh Gujrathi, Aditya Mittal and P Harikrishna- failed to impress. Gujrathi lies in 10th spot and out of the qualification range for the knockout with 14 points. He lost two of his four games, to Duda and Hansen. He drew against Mamedyarov before finishing the day with a victory over Keymer. Mittal (12 points) is in 12th place. He upset Erigaisi in round 12 after having lost his three previous games to Anish Giri (the Netherlands), Richard Rapport and David Anton Guijjaro in rounds 9, 10 and 11 respectively. Also Read: ICC to allow players who test positive for COVID-19 to play matches in T20 World Cup 2022 Harikrishna is 15th after 12 rounds of play and is out of contention to reach the quarterfinals. To his credit, he did however, held Carlsen to a draw in the 10th round in a 76-move match. World champion Carlsen is in the fifth spot after having a quiet day. After losing to Gukesh, he drew against Harikrishna and world rapid champion Nodirkbek Abdusattorov and ended with a win over Daniel Naroditsky. Gujrathi had an impressive win over world rapid champion Abdusattorov but draws against Grandelius and Naroditsky and a defeat at the hands of Carlsen pegged him back. The Aimchess Rapid tournament is part of the Meltwater Champions tour and features 16 players including five from India. After the 15-round preliminaries, the top eight qualify for the knockouts.

16-year-old Indian grandmaster D Gukesh stuns Magnus Carlsen in Aimchess Rapid chess

American chess grandmaster Hans&nbsp;Niemann was subjected to strict checking at the US Chess Championships in St Louis amid allegations that he cheated using a sex toy during his match against world champions Magnus Carlsen. Niemann had to undergo more extensive checking at the tournament compared to the other players.

A video from the live stream of the tournament, showed Niemann being checked from both the front and the back by the security officer ahead of his game. The 19-year-old can be seen asking to turn around after he was checked from the front as the security wand was waved over his back.

While the security officer spent more time inspecting Niemann when compared to the other players, it was also noticed that the two players who were scanned before the American grandmaster, were only inspected from their fronts. The video soon went viral on social media and became a talking point among chess enthusiasts.

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Niemann was subjected to a thorough check at the competition as he has been accused of being a serial cheater by world champion Carlsen. The Norweigan, who is regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, had recently pulled out of a game against Niemann after making just one move before accusing him of cheating.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/grandmaster-hans-niemann-breaks-silence-defends-reputation-after-cheating-claims-by-magnus-carlsen-522941">Grandmaster Hans Niemann breaks silence, defends reputation after cheating charge by Magnus Carlsen</a>

Carlsen had first accused Niemann of cheating during a game between the two at the Sinquefield Cup in September. Niemann's victory over Carlsen had shocked many as rumours went viral that the American had used a sex toy to cheat during the game.

As per the rumours, Niemann used wireless anal beads or a prostate massager to receive signals from his coach during his match against Carlsen. However, the 19-year-old denied the allegations. Carlsen then pulled out of his game against Niemann last month after making just one move before publically accusing of cheating on more occasions than he admits.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hans-niemann-likely-cheated-in-more-than-100-games-investigation-finds-522568">Hans Niemann 'likely cheated' in more than 100 games, investigation finds</a>

After Carlsen's allegations, Chess.com conducted an investigation into Niemann's matches on the platform and found out that the American has cheated in more than 100 games so far in his career, including those involving prize money. However, Niemann has denied the accusations and had only admitted to cheating tiwce in online tournaments when he was 12 and 16.

American chess grandmaster Hans Niemann was subjected to strict checking at the US Chess Championships in St Louis amid allegations that he cheated using a sex toy during his match against world champions Magnus Carlsen.

American chess grandmaster Hans Niemann was subjected to strict checking at the US Chess Championships in St Louis amid allegations that he cheated using a sex toy during his match against world champions Magnus Carlsen. Niemann had to undergo more extensive checking at the tournament compared to the other players. A video from the live stream of the tournament, showed Niemann being checked from both the front and the back by the security officer ahead of his game. The 19-year-old can be seen asking to turn around after he was checked from the front as the security wand was waved over his back. While the security officer spent more time inspecting Niemann when compared to the other players, it was also noticed that the two players who were scanned before the American grandmaster, were only inspected from their fronts. The video soon went viral on social media and became a talking point among chess enthusiasts. × Niemann was subjected to a thorough check at the competition as he has been accused of being a serial cheater by world champion Carlsen. The Norweigan, who is regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, had recently pulled out of a game against Niemann after making just one move before accusing him of cheating. Also Read: Grandmaster Hans Niemann breaks silence, defends reputation after cheating charge by Magnus Carlsen Carlsen had first accused Niemann of cheating during a game between the two at the Sinquefield Cup in September. Niemann's victory over Carlsen had shocked many as rumours went viral that the American had used a sex toy to cheat during the game. As per the rumours, Niemann used wireless anal beads or a prostate massager to receive signals from his coach during his match against Carlsen. However, the 19-year-old denied the allegations. Carlsen then pulled out of his game against Niemann last month after making just one move before publically accusing of cheating on more occasions than he admits. Also Read: Hans Niemann 'likely cheated' in more than 100 games, investigation finds After Carlsen's allegations, Chess.com conducted an investigation into Niemann's matches on the platform and found out that the American has cheated in more than 100 games so far in his career, including those involving prize money. However, Niemann has denied the accusations and had only admitted to cheating tiwce in online tournaments when he was 12 and 16.

American grandmaster Hans Niemann thoroughly scanned before match amid sex toy cheating allegations

American international grandmaster Hans Niemann said Wednesday he "won't back down," after the chess platform chess.com reported he has "probably cheated more than 100 times" in online games. Norwegian world champion Magnus Carlsen last week accused 19-year-old Niemann of cheating. 
 
"Overall, we have found that Hans (Niemann) has likely cheated in more than 100 online chess games, including several prize money events," the world's leading online chess platform wrote in a Tuesday evening report that ran 20 pages, with 50 additional appendices. Chess.com banned Niemann on September 5, shortly after the first accusations were made, but the platform is defending itself against suggestions that it is under pressure from Carlsen, whose Play Magnus company it is in the process of buying.

After a victory in the US Chess Championship on Wednesday, Niemann said the game he had just won "spoke for itself and showed the chess player that I am".&nbsp;He added, "It also showed that I'm not going to back down and I'm going to play my best chess here regardless of the pressure that I'm under," but declined to comment further.

Chess.com says it is "extremely confident" in its means of detecting cheating, which includes using grandmasters -- the highest rank of chess players -- as well as an analysis of moves made by computer programmes.

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- 'Statistically extraordinary' - 
 
The suspicions of the platform go beyond the framework of the internet. It also devotes part of its report to Niemann's spectacular and rapid progress on the chessboard. "While we do not doubt that Hans is a talented player, we note that his results are statistically extraordinary," said the report which illustrated the American's rise with a dramatic graph.&nbsp;

However, chess.com said it had no evidence that Niemann had cheated in "over-the-board" (OTB) games when players are physically present.&nbsp;"There is nothing in our statistical investigation to raise any red flags regarding Hans' OTB play and rise," said the report.&nbsp; Last month, at the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Carlsen lost to Niemann OTB and then withdrew from the tournament, posting a video that implied something improper had taken place.

Chess.com described this encounter as "bizarre" but concluded that there was no evidence "that Hans cheated in this game and we do not advocate for any conclusions regarding cheating being made based on this one encounter". Two weeks after St Louis, the two players met again in the sixth round of the online Julius Baer Generation Cup. This time Carlsen resigned after making just one move, going on to release a statement that he would not "play against people that have cheated repeatedly in the past".

The International Chess Federation announced on September 29 that it was opening an investigation into these accusations of cheating.&nbsp; Niemann has admitted to cheating in the past on chess.com, when he was between 12 and 16 years old, but denies the most recent accusations, claiming to be "ready to play naked", if necessary.

American international grandmaster Hans Niemann said Wednesday he "won't back down," after the chess platform chess.com reported he has "probably cheated more than 100 times" in online games.

American international grandmaster Hans Niemann said Wednesday he "won't back down," after the chess platform chess.com reported he has "probably cheated more than 100 times" in online games. Norwegian world champion Magnus Carlsen last week accused 19-year-old Niemann of cheating. "Overall, we have found that Hans (Niemann) has likely cheated in more than 100 online chess games, including several prize money events," the world's leading online chess platform wrote in a Tuesday evening report that ran 20 pages, with 50 additional appendices. Chess.com banned Niemann on September 5, shortly after the first accusations were made, but the platform is defending itself against suggestions that it is under pressure from Carlsen, whose Play Magnus company it is in the process of buying. After a victory in the US Chess Championship on Wednesday, Niemann said the game he had just won "spoke for itself and showed the chess player that I am". He added, "It also showed that I'm not going to back down and I'm going to play my best chess here regardless of the pressure that I'm under," but declined to comment further. Chess.com says it is "extremely confident" in its means of detecting cheating, which includes using grandmasters -- the highest rank of chess players -- as well as an analysis of moves made by computer programmes. ALSO READ | LIV golfers set to earn ranking points after strategic alliance with MENA Tour - 'Statistically extraordinary' - The suspicions of the platform go beyond the framework of the internet. It also devotes part of its report to Niemann's spectacular and rapid progress on the chessboard. "While we do not doubt that Hans is a talented player, we note that his results are statistically extraordinary," said the report which illustrated the American's rise with a dramatic graph. However, chess.com said it had no evidence that Niemann had cheated in "over-the-board" (OTB) games when players are physically present. "There is nothing in our statistical investigation to raise any red flags regarding Hans' OTB play and rise," said the report. Last month, at the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Carlsen lost to Niemann OTB and then withdrew from the tournament, posting a video that implied something improper had taken place. Chess.com described this encounter as "bizarre" but concluded that there was no evidence "that Hans cheated in this game and we do not advocate for any conclusions regarding cheating being made based on this one encounter". Two weeks after St Louis, the two players met again in the sixth round of the online Julius Baer Generation Cup. This time Carlsen resigned after making just one move, going on to release a statement that he would not "play against people that have cheated repeatedly in the past". The International Chess Federation announced on September 29 that it was opening an investigation into these accusations of cheating. Niemann has admitted to cheating in the past on chess.com, when he was between 12 and 16 years old, but denies the most recent accusations, claiming to be "ready to play naked", if necessary.

Grandmaster Hans Niemann breaks silence, defends reputation after cheating charge by Magnus Carlsen

The chess world was rocked when world no.1 Magnus Carlsen accused American grandmaster Hans Niemann of cheating and refused to play against him last month. Now an investigation conducted by Chess.com has found Niemann 'likely cheated' in more than 100 online games.

However, the investigation found no evidence Niemann had cheated against Carlsen or in any 'over the board' games.&nbsp;It found Niemann received 'likely illegal assistance' in more games than he has previously disclosed, some with prize money at stake.

The investigation contradicts the American grandmaster's denial of cheating accusations. Though he had admitted to cheating in informal games when he was 12 and 16, he had denied the allegations of using unfair means in any competitive games.&nbsp;

Niemann, who has had a meteoric rise in chess over the last few years, first came under the scanner after he defeated world champion Carlsen while playing with the black pieces at the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis. Many alleged the American had cheated in the game with Carlsen abruptly withdrawing from the tournament, in what was seen as a mark of protest.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/magnus-carlsen-resigns-from-rematch-with-hans-niemann-after-just-two-moves-517910">Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves</a>

Two weeks later, Carlsen matched against Niemann once again in an online tournament and decided to resign after making just one move. He later went on to accuse the 19-year-old of cheating on more occasions than he admits. The world champions said he was not willing to 'play against people that have cheated repeatedly in the past'.

In a 72-page&nbsp;report that has been made public, Chess.com, the most popular chess website in the world,&nbsp;has supported Carlsen's accusations against the American grandmaster. The investigation was conducted using cheating-detection tools and comparing players' moves to those suggested by powerful supercomputers.

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Today we released our official report on Hans Niemann, Magnus Carlsen, and cheating in chess. Read it here: <a href="https://t.co/HeDTReeAPe">https://t.co/HeDTReeAPe</a>
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During the investigation, some of Niemann's moves were found to be stronger than the best players.&nbsp;While the report stated that some of the results were 'statistically extraordinary', it added that there was no 'direct evidence' that Niemann cheated in any over-the-board games in the past, including against Carlsen.

However, the investigation found that the American cheated in online matches till as recently as 2020, including against some 'well known' figures.

"Overall, we have found that Hans has likely cheated in more than 100 online chess games, including several prize money events. He was already 17 when he likely cheated in some of these matches and games. He was also streaming in 25 of these games," the report stated.

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Chess.com also said there were 'anomalies' in Niemann's growth as far as rankings were concerned. The American grandmaster has risen from being in the top 800 in the world to being in the top 50 in just a couple of years.

Meanwhile, FIDE - the world chess governing body has said it will set up a three-person panel to conduct an investigation into the cheating allegations made by Carlsen against Niemann.&nbsp;

“The focus of the investigation would be twofold: checking the world champion’s claims of alleged cheating by Niemann and Niemann’s self-statement regarding online cheating. The panel will ensure a fair ruling, protecting the rights of both parties during the investigation," FIDE said in a statement.

The chess world was rocked when world no.1 Magnus Carlsen accused American grandmaster Hans Niemann of cheating and refused to play against him last month. Now an investigation conducted by Chess.

The chess world was rocked when world no.1 Magnus Carlsen accused American grandmaster Hans Niemann of cheating and refused to play against him last month. Now an investigation conducted by Chess.com has found Niemann 'likely cheated' in more than 100 online games. However, the investigation found no evidence Niemann had cheated against Carlsen or in any 'over the board' games. It found Niemann received 'likely illegal assistance' in more games than he has previously disclosed, some with prize money at stake. The investigation contradicts the American grandmaster's denial of cheating accusations. Though he had admitted to cheating in informal games when he was 12 and 16, he had denied the allegations of using unfair means in any competitive games. Niemann, who has had a meteoric rise in chess over the last few years, first came under the scanner after he defeated world champion Carlsen while playing with the black pieces at the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis. Many alleged the American had cheated in the game with Carlsen abruptly withdrawing from the tournament, in what was seen as a mark of protest. Also Read: Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves Two weeks later, Carlsen matched against Niemann once again in an online tournament and decided to resign after making just one move. He later went on to accuse the 19-year-old of cheating on more occasions than he admits. The world champions said he was not willing to 'play against people that have cheated repeatedly in the past'. In a 72-page report that has been made public, Chess.com, the most popular chess website in the world, has supported Carlsen's accusations against the American grandmaster. The investigation was conducted using cheating-detection tools and comparing players' moves to those suggested by powerful supercomputers. Today we released our official report on Hans Niemann, Magnus Carlsen, and cheating in chess. Read it here: https://t.co/HeDTReeAPe — Chess.com (@chesscom) October 4, 2022 × During the investigation, some of Niemann's moves were found to be stronger than the best players. While the report stated that some of the results were 'statistically extraordinary', it added that there was no 'direct evidence' that Niemann cheated in any over-the-board games in the past, including against Carlsen. However, the investigation found that the American cheated in online matches till as recently as 2020, including against some 'well known' figures. "Overall, we have found that Hans has likely cheated in more than 100 online chess games, including several prize money events. He was already 17 when he likely cheated in some of these matches and games. He was also streaming in 25 of these games," the report stated. Also Read: Shocking! Exit gates were closed during deadly stadium stampede, says Indonesia football association Chess.com also said there were 'anomalies' in Niemann's growth as far as rankings were concerned. The American grandmaster has risen from being in the top 800 in the world to being in the top 50 in just a couple of years. Meanwhile, FIDE - the world chess governing body has said it will set up a three-person panel to conduct an investigation into the cheating allegations made by Carlsen against Niemann. “The focus of the investigation would be twofold: checking the world champion’s claims of alleged cheating by Niemann and Niemann’s self-statement regarding online cheating. The panel will ensure a fair ruling, protecting the rights of both parties during the investigation," FIDE said in a statement.

Hans Niemann 'likely cheated' in more than 100 games, investigation finds

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) said it will convene a three-person panel to look into world champion Magnus Carlsen's allegations that American player Hans Niemann had cheated. Carlsen, 31, withdrew from the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Missouri earlier this month after losing to the 19-year-old, who lags him by almost 200 Elo points - the rating system used to calculate the relative skill level of players.

The surprise defeat and Carlsen's withdrawal from the over-the-board tournament sparked a furore of comments and allegations that Niemann had cheated, including from U.S. grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura. The Norwegian then resigned at the Julius Baer Generation Cup after just one move against Niemann in an online game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gm-illya-smirin-lands-in-trouble-for-sexist-remarks-fired-for-saying-chess-is-not-for-women-520811">GM Illya Smirin lands in trouble for sexist remarks, fired for saying 'Chess is not for women'</a>

Niemann has previously been banned from chess.com for cheating online after admitting he had not played fairly in non-competitive games on the website in his youth. However, he has denied any wrongdoing in over-the-board games. Carlsen on Monday said that he believed Niemann had "cheated more - and more recently - than he has publicly admitted".

FIDE&nbsp;said in a statement on Thursday: "The focus of the investigation would be twofold: checking the world champion's claims of alleged cheating by Niemann and Niemann's self-statement regarding online cheating ... "The panel will ensure a fair ruling, protecting the rights of both parties during the investigation."

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) said it will convene a three-person panel to look into world champion Magnus Carlsen's allegations that American player Hans Niemann had cheated.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) said it will convene a three-person panel to look into world champion Magnus Carlsen's allegations that American player Hans Niemann had cheated. Carlsen, 31, withdrew from the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Missouri earlier this month after losing to the 19-year-old, who lags him by almost 200 Elo points - the rating system used to calculate the relative skill level of players. The surprise defeat and Carlsen's withdrawal from the over-the-board tournament sparked a furore of comments and allegations that Niemann had cheated, including from U.S. grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura. The Norwegian then resigned at the Julius Baer Generation Cup after just one move against Niemann in an online game. ALSO READ | GM Illya Smirin lands in trouble for sexist remarks, fired for saying 'Chess is not for women' Niemann has previously been banned from chess.com for cheating online after admitting he had not played fairly in non-competitive games on the website in his youth. However, he has denied any wrongdoing in over-the-board games. Carlsen on Monday said that he believed Niemann had "cheated more - and more recently - than he has publicly admitted". FIDE said in a statement on Thursday: "The focus of the investigation would be twofold: checking the world champion's claims of alleged cheating by Niemann and Niemann's self-statement regarding online cheating ... "The panel will ensure a fair ruling, protecting the rights of both parties during the investigation."

FIDE set to form panel to look into world champion Magnus Carlsen's cheating allegations

A huge controversy broke out in the&nbsp;opening event of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2022-23 on Tuesday (September 27) when&nbsp;GM Ilya Smirin's sexist remarks, claiming that chess is not for women, during the live broadcast went viral in no time. As a result, the announcer landed in trouble and has been&nbsp;fired with immediate effect by the FIDE.

The embarrassing comments&nbsp;were made during the live broadcast of the ninth round of the event in Astana. Smirin, a Belarusian-born Israeli grandmaster, was on&nbsp;debut as an English-language commentator with WIM Fiona Steil-Antoni of Luxemburg. Nonetheless, his&nbsp;debut turned out to be a nightmare&nbsp;as the chess player shockingly claimed that "Chess is not for women”. Further, he continued saying, "Why women can play against men and men cannot play against women” and "why a woman would want to get a men’s GM title."

A viewer asked if it was possible for one of the participants&nbsp;(WGM Zhu Jiner) to make a GM norm in this&nbsp;event solely for women. To this, Smirin asked, "She’s a Woman Grandmaster or what? Why does she want to be like men grandmaster in this case?” In addition, the Israeli chess player&nbsp;questioned,&nbsp;"It’s possible basically to make a men norm in a woman tournament?"

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Isn’t it a pure form of discrimination? How can such a man work in the official <a href="https://twitter.com/FIDE_chess?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIDE_chess</a> broadcast of such an important women's event? <a href="https://t.co/osdI8jipab">pic.twitter.com/osdI8jipab</a>
— Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova (@Gulruhbegim) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gulruhbegim/status/1574792047562719233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It is to be noted that scoring&nbsp;a grandmaster norm has no relation&nbsp;with the gender. It can be attained by a certain level of performance against a strong opposition, that&nbsp;must include a plethora of other grandmasters (irrespective of the&nbsp;gender).

GM Illya Smirin pays a heavy price

While Steil-Antoni countered saying, “Of course, why not?” Smirin replied, "I don’t know. For instance, why women can play with men and men cannot play with women? Today it would be like everyone for parity!”

After&nbsp;laughing it off, Smirin tried to move past his remarks and said, "I didn’t say it openly, sorry. Private conversation." The damager, however, was done by then.

American GM and popular YouTube streamer Hikaru Nakamura lashed out at Smirin for his insensitive remarks. In a Youtube video, he said, "What the hell? It’s brutal. It must be really uncomfortable for Fiona to handle it there. It is reasonably rough."

While FIDE was slow to react, it shared a statement on the following day resulting in the ouster of GM Illya Smirin. Here's the official statement:

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FIDE's statement on sexist remarks<a href="https://t.co/2vXhRrQPVN">https://t.co/2vXhRrQPVN</a> <a href="https://t.co/KCaWdAdX6N">pic.twitter.com/KCaWdAdX6N</a>
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIDE_chess/status/1575044033688248321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-chess-champion-carlsen-alleges-niemann-has-cheated-more-than-he-admits-519968">World chess champion Carlsen alleges Niemann has 'cheated more than he admits'</a>

The FIDE statement read: "During yesterday's Women's Grand Prix live broadcast, one of the announcers expressed some very embarrassing comments. Although we have great respect for Grandmaster Ilya Smirin as a chess player, the views he expressed on air are completely unacceptable, and offensive, and do not represent any of the values that FIDE stands for. Therefore, we unreservedly apologise to all those who were offended. Additionally, GM Smirin will not continue as a FIDE commentator with immediate effect."

A huge controversy broke out in the opening event of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2022-23 on Tuesday (September 27) when GM Ilya Smirin's sexist remarks, claiming that chess is not for women, during the live broadcast went viral in no time.

A huge controversy broke out in the opening event of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2022-23 on Tuesday (September 27) when GM Ilya Smirin's sexist remarks, claiming that chess is not for women, during the live broadcast went viral in no time. As a result, the announcer landed in trouble and has been fired with immediate effect by the FIDE. The embarrassing comments were made during the live broadcast of the ninth round of the event in Astana. Smirin, a Belarusian-born Israeli grandmaster, was on debut as an English-language commentator with WIM Fiona Steil-Antoni of Luxemburg. Nonetheless, his debut turned out to be a nightmare as the chess player shockingly claimed that "Chess is not for women”. Further, he continued saying, "Why women can play against men and men cannot play against women” and "why a woman would want to get a men’s GM title." A viewer asked if it was possible for one of the participants (WGM Zhu Jiner) to make a GM norm in this event solely for women. To this, Smirin asked, "She’s a Woman Grandmaster or what? Why does she want to be like men grandmaster in this case?” In addition, the Israeli chess player questioned, "It’s possible basically to make a men norm in a woman tournament?" Isn’t it a pure form of discrimination? How can such a man work in the official @FIDE_chess broadcast of such an important women's event? pic.twitter.com/osdI8jipab — Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova (@Gulruhbegim) September 27, 2022 × It is to be noted that scoring a grandmaster norm has no relation with the gender. It can be attained by a certain level of performance against a strong opposition, that must include a plethora of other grandmasters (irrespective of the gender). GM Illya Smirin pays a heavy price While Steil-Antoni countered saying, “Of course, why not?” Smirin replied, "I don’t know. For instance, why women can play with men and men cannot play with women? Today it would be like everyone for parity!” After laughing it off, Smirin tried to move past his remarks and said, "I didn’t say it openly, sorry. Private conversation." The damager, however, was done by then. American GM and popular YouTube streamer Hikaru Nakamura lashed out at Smirin for his insensitive remarks. In a Youtube video, he said, "What the hell? It’s brutal. It must be really uncomfortable for Fiona to handle it there. It is reasonably rough." While FIDE was slow to react, it shared a statement on the following day resulting in the ouster of GM Illya Smirin. Here's the official statement: FIDE's statement on sexist remarkshttps://t.co/2vXhRrQPVN pic.twitter.com/KCaWdAdX6N — International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) September 28, 2022 × ALSO READ | World chess champion Carlsen alleges Niemann has 'cheated more than he admits' The FIDE statement read: "During yesterday's Women's Grand Prix live broadcast, one of the announcers expressed some very embarrassing comments. Although we have great respect for Grandmaster Ilya Smirin as a chess player, the views he expressed on air are completely unacceptable, and offensive, and do not represent any of the values that FIDE stands for. Therefore, we unreservedly apologise to all those who were offended. Additionally, GM Smirin will not continue as a FIDE commentator with immediate effect."

GM Illya Smirin lands in trouble for sexist remarks, fired for saying 'Chess is not for women'

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen accused 19-year-old US chess player Hans Niemann of cheating. The accusation follows Carlsen's unexpected loss to Niemann earlier this month. What do these allegations mean for the world of chess? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Magnus Carlsen accuses Hans Niemann of cheating

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen once again blamed Hans Niemann of cheating and made it clear that he does not want to play against the American grandmaster ever again.

In a statement on social media, Carlsen said that Niemann had "cheated more - and more recently - than he has publicly admitted" and cited the example of their match at this year’s Sinquefield Cup.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-football-fans-in-brazil-are-ditching-the-iconic-yellow-jersey-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-519796" hreflang="en">Why football fans in Brazil are ditching the iconic yellow jersey ahead of FIFA World Cup</a>

The 19-year-old Niemann caused a major upset by beating Carlsen and the world champion decided to withdraw from the competition following the defeat. Since then, Carlsen has accused the American of cheating during the game – an accusation backed by a number of other grandmasters.

Carlsen caused a bigger controversy when he faced Niemann once again at the Julius Baer Generation Cup as the Norwegian left the game after playing just one move.

"So far I have only been able to speak with my actions, and those actions have stated clearly that I am not willing to play chess with Niemann," Carlsen said in his statement on Twitter.

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My statement regarding the last few weeks. <a href="https://t.co/KY34DbcjLo">pic.twitter.com/KY34DbcjLo</a>
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"When Niemann was invited last minute to the 2022 Sinquefield Cup, I strongly considered withdrawing before the event. I ultimately chose to play," he added.

Niemann has previously admitted to cheating in non-competitive games, but he completely denied the accusation that he cheated against Carlsen. However, Carlsen said that his demeanor was “unusual” during their match in St Louis and he “was not even fully concentrating on the game”.

"His over-the-board progress has been unusual, and throughout our game, in the Sinquefield Cup I had the impression that he wasn't tense or even fully concentrating on the game in critical positions while outplaying me as black in a way I think only a handful of players can do," he explained.

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen once again blamed Hans Niemann of cheating and made it clear that he does not want to play against the American grandmaster ever again.

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen once again blamed Hans Niemann of cheating and made it clear that he does not want to play against the American grandmaster ever again. In a statement on social media, Carlsen said that Niemann had "cheated more - and more recently - than he has publicly admitted" and cited the example of their match at this year’s Sinquefield Cup. Also read | Why football fans in Brazil are ditching the iconic yellow jersey ahead of FIFA World Cup The 19-year-old Niemann caused a major upset by beating Carlsen and the world champion decided to withdraw from the competition following the defeat. Since then, Carlsen has accused the American of cheating during the game – an accusation backed by a number of other grandmasters. Carlsen caused a bigger controversy when he faced Niemann once again at the Julius Baer Generation Cup as the Norwegian left the game after playing just one move. "So far I have only been able to speak with my actions, and those actions have stated clearly that I am not willing to play chess with Niemann," Carlsen said in his statement on Twitter. My statement regarding the last few weeks. pic.twitter.com/KY34DbcjLo — Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) September 26, 2022 × "When Niemann was invited last minute to the 2022 Sinquefield Cup, I strongly considered withdrawing before the event. I ultimately chose to play," he added. Niemann has previously admitted to cheating in non-competitive games, but he completely denied the accusation that he cheated against Carlsen. However, Carlsen said that his demeanor was “unusual” during their match in St Louis and he “was not even fully concentrating on the game”. "His over-the-board progress has been unusual, and throughout our game, in the Sinquefield Cup I had the impression that he wasn't tense or even fully concentrating on the game in critical positions while outplaying me as black in a way I think only a handful of players can do," he explained.

World chess champion Carlsen alleges Niemann has 'cheated more than he admits'

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2. Having won the first match, the Norwegian had the advantage and he won the first two games of the second match to close out the finale early on Monday.

Having won the first match, comprising four games, 2.5-0.5, Carlsen needed to only draw the second to take the top prize. He won two games of the second match and shut out Erigaisi. The final was a two-match affair with each match consisting of four games. If the players had won a match each, a blitz tie-break would have been required to decide the winner. Requiring to win the second match to have a chance to push the final to a tie-break, the 19-year old Indian player found himself in trouble against the world no.1 in red-hot form. Erigaisi resigned on move 48 and slipped into further trouble.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unfortunately-i-cannot-speak-on-that-magnus-carlsen-refuses-to-clarify-cheating-claims-518767">'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims</a>

The second game was over in 52 moves as Carlsen dashed the Indian GM's hopes. Carlsen had been unstoppable in the preliminary phase and lost just one game, resigning after just two moves against Hans Niemann and subsequently dropping a game to Lev Aronian in the quarterfinals. 
Carlsen's performance makes him the first player to hit the historic 2900 Tour Rating mark. Erigaisi, with a fine performance in the Julius Baer Cup, part of the Meltwater Chess Tour, has qualified for the eight-player tour final in San Francisco later this year.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2.

Teenaged Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi went down against world no.1 Magnus Carlsen in the final of the Julius Baer Generation Cup online rapid chess tournament, losing the second match 0-2. Having won the first match, the Norwegian had the advantage and he won the first two games of the second match to close out the finale early on Monday. Having won the first match, comprising four games, 2.5-0.5, Carlsen needed to only draw the second to take the top prize. He won two games of the second match and shut out Erigaisi. The final was a two-match affair with each match consisting of four games. If the players had won a match each, a blitz tie-break would have been required to decide the winner. Requiring to win the second match to have a chance to push the final to a tie-break, the 19-year old Indian player found himself in trouble against the world no.1 in red-hot form. Erigaisi resigned on move 48 and slipped into further trouble. ALSO READ | 'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims The second game was over in 52 moves as Carlsen dashed the Indian GM's hopes. Carlsen had been unstoppable in the preliminary phase and lost just one game, resigning after just two moves against Hans Niemann and subsequently dropping a game to Lev Aronian in the quarterfinals. Carlsen's performance makes him the first player to hit the historic 2900 Tour Rating mark. Erigaisi, with a fine performance in the Julius Baer Cup, part of the Meltwater Chess Tour, has qualified for the eight-player tour final in San Francisco later this year.

Julius Baer Cup: Indian GM Erigaisi loses to World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in final

Chess world champion&nbsp;Magnus&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;remained vague on Thursday about whether or not he thought Hans Niemann was a cheat after he abruptly conceded his contest against the American at the Julius Baer Generation Cup online tournament following one move. This was the second time this month that the Norwegian has surrendered games or pulled out from a tournament which also featured Niemann.

Carlsen, world champion since 2013, withdrew from the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Missouri, earlier this month after unexpectedly losing with the white pieces to Niemann, who lags almost 200 ELO points behind him. It was the first defeat with the white pieces in a classical game for the world number one since he lost to American Levon Aronian in Oct. 2020.

The day after losing to Niemann,&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;explained his withdrawal from the tournament by tweeting a video of soccer coach Jose Mourinho saying: "If I speak, I am in big trouble." The tweet sparked a furore of comments and allegations that the 19-year-old Niemann had cheated, including from American grandmaster and star streamer Hikaru Nakamura. "In response to the recent rumours circulating the chess world, I can confirm that we currently have no indication that any player has been playing unfairly in the 2022 Sinquefield Cup," Sinquefield Cup chief arbiter Chris Bird said in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/magnus-carlsen-resigns-from-rematch-with-hans-niemann-after-just-two-moves-517910">Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves</a>

Niemann had previously been banned from chess.com for cheating online, having admitted he had not played fairly in non-competitive games on the website in his youth. However, he has denied any wrongdoing while contesting over-the-board games. "I have never cheated in an over-the-board game. If they want me to strip fully naked, I will do it. I don’t care. Because I know I am clean. You want me to play in a closed box with zero electronic transmission, I don’t care," he said recently.

Asked about his surprise withdrawal in St Louis and Monday's surrender,&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;told Norwegian TV NRK: "Unfortunately I cannot particularly speak on that. "But people can draw their own conclusion and they certainly have and I have to say I am very impressed by Niemann's play and I think his mentor Maxim Dlugy must be doing a great job."

Asked if his decision had anything to do with him suspecting Niemann of cheating,&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;said: "I cannot comment on that." In July,&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;said he would not defend his world championship title in 2023 against Russia's Ian Nepomniachtchi as he is not motivated to play another match. Nepomniachtchi will face the runner up in the recent Candidates tournament, China's Ding Liren.

Chess world champion Magnus Carlsen remained vague on Thursday about whether or not he thought Hans Niemann was a cheat after he abruptly conceded his contest against the American at the Julius Baer Generation Cup online tournament following one move.

Chess world champion Magnus Carlsen remained vague on Thursday about whether or not he thought Hans Niemann was a cheat after he abruptly conceded his contest against the American at the Julius Baer Generation Cup online tournament following one move. This was the second time this month that the Norwegian has surrendered games or pulled out from a tournament which also featured Niemann. Carlsen, world champion since 2013, withdrew from the Sinquefield Cup in St Louis, Missouri, earlier this month after unexpectedly losing with the white pieces to Niemann, who lags almost 200 ELO points behind him. It was the first defeat with the white pieces in a classical game for the world number one since he lost to American Levon Aronian in Oct. 2020. The day after losing to Niemann, Carlsen explained his withdrawal from the tournament by tweeting a video of soccer coach Jose Mourinho saying: "If I speak, I am in big trouble." The tweet sparked a furore of comments and allegations that the 19-year-old Niemann had cheated, including from American grandmaster and star streamer Hikaru Nakamura. "In response to the recent rumours circulating the chess world, I can confirm that we currently have no indication that any player has been playing unfairly in the 2022 Sinquefield Cup," Sinquefield Cup chief arbiter Chris Bird said in a statement. ALSO READ | Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves Niemann had previously been banned from chess.com for cheating online, having admitted he had not played fairly in non-competitive games on the website in his youth. However, he has denied any wrongdoing while contesting over-the-board games. "I have never cheated in an over-the-board game. If they want me to strip fully naked, I will do it. I don’t care. Because I know I am clean. You want me to play in a closed box with zero electronic transmission, I don’t care," he said recently. Asked about his surprise withdrawal in St Louis and Monday's surrender, Carlsen told Norwegian TV NRK: "Unfortunately I cannot particularly speak on that. "But people can draw their own conclusion and they certainly have and I have to say I am very impressed by Niemann's play and I think his mentor Maxim Dlugy must be doing a great job." Asked if his decision had anything to do with him suspecting Niemann of cheating, Carlsen said: "I cannot comment on that." In July, Carlsen said he would not defend his world championship title in 2023 against Russia's Ian Nepomniachtchi as he is not motivated to play another match. Nepomniachtchi will face the runner up in the recent Candidates tournament, China's Ding Liren.

'Unfortunately, I cannot speak on that': Magnus Carlsen refuses to clarify cheating claims

The sport of Chess has been rocked by a major cheating scandal. World champion Magnus Carlsen quit his Julius Baer Generation Cup match against American Grandmaster Hans Niemann after just one move. Carlsen's decision to withdraw set off waves across the chess world, reigniting the cheating debate in the sport. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with Indian Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay to address the burning issue.

WION Sports | Magnus Carlsen reignites cheating debate

Reigning chess world champion Magnus Carlsen continued to dominate headlines after leaving his match against Hans Niemann at the Julius Baer Generation Cup after just two moves. The earlier match between the two grandmasters at the Sinquefield Cup sparked a major controversy as Niemann was accused of cheating after beating the Norwegian in a shocking upset.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-break-sachin-tendulkars-historic-feat-ricky-ponting-shares-his-take-517856" hreflang="en">Will Virat Kohli break Sachin Tendulkar's historic feat? Ricky Ponting shares his take</a>

On Monday, both players appeared for the match on video link during the live broadcast on Chess24. Nieman, who was playing with white, made the first move of the match and Carlson followed. However, right after the first move, Carlsen disconnected from the encounter.

The decision by Carlsen to take part in the match added fuel to the controversy surrounding their previous game. Following the incident, world’s best blitz player – Hikaru Nakamura – claimed that Carlsen left the game because he suspected that Niemann had “probably cheated”. He also revealed that Niemann was banned by the world’s most popular chess website - Chess.com.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/517772" hreflang="en">WATCH: Heartwarming! Ronaldo hugs young fan, signs autograph</a>

While Niemann did admit to cheating in online tournaments as a teenager, he denied all allegations when it came to this game against Carlsen. “I have never cheated in an over-the-board game,” he said and even proposed to play in “a closed box with zero electronic transmission”.

Both the players were back for their next matches, but the commentators were left shocked by the events. “Magnus [is] just refusing to play against Hans. He will play the tournament, but he is saying ‘I will not play the game against him’. That’s making a very big statement,” Chess24 commentator Tanya Sachdeva remarked.

Reigning chess world champion Magnus Carlsen continued to dominate headlines after leaving his match against Hans Niemann at the Julius Baer Generation Cup after just two moves.

Reigning chess world champion Magnus Carlsen continued to dominate headlines after leaving his match against Hans Niemann at the Julius Baer Generation Cup after just two moves. The earlier match between the two grandmasters at the Sinquefield Cup sparked a major controversy as Niemann was accused of cheating after beating the Norwegian in a shocking upset. Also read | Will Virat Kohli break Sachin Tendulkar's historic feat? Ricky Ponting shares his take On Monday, both players appeared for the match on video link during the live broadcast on Chess24. Nieman, who was playing with white, made the first move of the match and Carlson followed. However, right after the first move, Carlsen disconnected from the encounter. The decision by Carlsen to take part in the match added fuel to the controversy surrounding their previous game. Following the incident, world’s best blitz player – Hikaru Nakamura – claimed that Carlsen left the game because he suspected that Niemann had “probably cheated”. He also revealed that Niemann was banned by the world’s most popular chess website - Chess.com. Also read | WATCH: Heartwarming! Ronaldo hugs young fan, signs autograph While Niemann did admit to cheating in online tournaments as a teenager, he denied all allegations when it came to this game against Carlsen. “I have never cheated in an over-the-board game,” he said and even proposed to play in “a closed box with zero electronic transmission”. Both the players were back for their next matches, but the commentators were left shocked by the events. “Magnus [is] just refusing to play against Hans. He will play the tournament, but he is saying ‘I will not play the game against him’. That’s making a very big statement,” Chess24 commentator Tanya Sachdeva remarked.

Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has fueled a rather wild conspiracy theory after reports emerged suggesting that top chess player Hans Niemann, 19 might be cheating to win his matches.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has fueled a rather wild conspiracy theory after reports emerged suggesting that top chess player Hans Niemann, 19 might be cheating to win his matches. Reportedly, Musk took to his Twitter account to suggest that Niemann might be using 'anal beads' to beat the system and avoid getting detected by the tournament organisers. Musk tweeted the video of a content creator claiming that Hans might have been using anal beads. The creator tweeted the video with the caption, "Currently obsessed with the notion that Hans Niemann has been cheating at the Sinquefield Cup chess tournament using wireless anal beads that vibrate him the correct moves." Re-sharing the post with the quote of a German philosopher named Arthur Schopenhauer, Musk wrote, “Talent hits a target no one else can hit, genius hits a target no one can see (cause it’s in your butt)” – Schopenhauer.” Since then, Musk has deleted his tweet but the archived version as well as the screenshots continue to do the rounds of internet. It is pertinent to note that Niemann shocked the Chess world earlier this week by defeating five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen, 31 in the $500,000 Sinquefield Cup, an annual chess tournament held in Saint Louis. Afterward, Carlsen quit the tournament which added fuel to the fire. While Carlsen did not cite any reason for quitting the tournament, most fans believed that it was because of Niemann. Read more: Chess: Learn to pronounce his name - Indian tycoon after Praggnanandhaa defeats Carlsen The Norweigian also posted a critic tweet with the famous meme template of football manager Jose Mourinho saying, "If I speak I am in big trouble. Big, big trouble." I've withdrawn from the tournament. I've always enjoyed playing in the @STLChessClub, and hope to be back in the future https://t.co/YFSpl8er3u — Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) September 5, 2022 × After the controversy snowballed, Niemann, who is a Grandmaster as well, stated that he will strip naked if it is what it took to plead his innocence. "If they want me to strip fully naked, I will do it. I don’t care. Because I know I am clean. You want me to play in a closed box with zero electronic transmission, I don’t care." The 19-year-old made it clear that he did cheat once by using computer assistance when playing online as a child, but he had not resorted to unfair means in the tournament. Read more: Deal reached in 'Queen's Gambit' defamation suit against Netflix It is pertinent to note that chess players in tournaments as big as the Sinquefield Cup go through multiple rounds of screening before making it to their designated table and chair. Moreover, the anti-cheating protocol of the tournament includes a 15-minute delay in the broadcast of moves and radio-frequency identification checks. Carlsen's form in recent months has been shaky. He lost against young Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa. Meanwhile, Musk is infamous for tweeting innate things just for laughs and gags. Thus, a section of netizens believes that there is not much substance in the conspiracy theories floating around regarding the anal beads. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk jumps in on the 'anal beads' chess championship conspiracy theory

On Monday (August 22),&nbsp;India's young&nbsp;Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made heads turn once again and produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to move past world champion Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup. Despite the impressive win, the 17-year-old settled for the second spot in the final rankings as the No. 1 ranked Norwegian clinched the top prize by a whisker.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Carlsen returned&nbsp;with 16 match points as compared to the Indian prodigy's tally of 15. Thus, there was not much separating the two before Carlsen ended with the top honours. After the match, he stated,&nbsp;"I've been playing badly all day, but now I'm getting the results I deserve... It's never good to lose, but this is as good a time as any!"

Impressed with Rameshbabu, business tycoon Anand&nbsp;Mahindra lavished huge praise on the young chess prodigy and took to Twitter to laud him. He tweeted saying, "Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon...(And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!)"

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Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon… 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 (And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!) <a href="https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm">https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm</a>
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1561631997910724609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-praggnanandhaa-beats-world-no1-magnus-carlsen-again-but-loses-top-prize-in-ftx-crypto-cup-509010">R Praggnanandhaa beats World no.1 Magnus Carlsen again but loses top prize in FTX Crypto Cup</a>

Anand Mahindra, an Indian billionaire businessman&nbsp;and also the chairman of Mahindra Group, is known for his tweets on sporting icons of the country. Like many other countrymen, he remains in awe of&nbsp;Praggnanandhaa who continues to move up the ladder in his profession.&nbsp;

"Fantastic finish towards the end! @rpragchess won in blitz tiebreak against Magnus #FTXCryptoCup ! Great defensive skills at crucial junctures, some good opening preparations, some bad decisions, overall very satisfying," coach R B Ramesh tweeted after the recent win over Carlsen.

Final placings: 

1. Magnus Carlsen 16 match points

2. R Praggnanandhaa 15

3. Alireza Firouzja 15

4. Liem Le 12

5. Jan-Krzystof Duda 11

6. Levon Aronian 8

&nbsp;7. Anish Giri

8. Hans Niemann 0.

On Monday (August 22), India's young Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made heads turn once again and produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to move past world champion Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup.

On Monday (August 22), India's young Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made heads turn once again and produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to move past world champion Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup. Despite the impressive win, the 17-year-old settled for the second spot in the final rankings as the No. 1 ranked Norwegian clinched the top prize by a whisker. For the unversed, Carlsen returned with 16 match points as compared to the Indian prodigy's tally of 15. Thus, there was not much separating the two before Carlsen ended with the top honours. After the match, he stated, "I've been playing badly all day, but now I'm getting the results I deserve... It's never good to lose, but this is as good a time as any!" Impressed with Rameshbabu, business tycoon Anand Mahindra lavished huge praise on the young chess prodigy and took to Twitter to laud him. He tweeted saying, "Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon...(And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!)" Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon… 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 (And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!) https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) August 22, 2022 × ALSO READ | R Praggnanandhaa beats World no.1 Magnus Carlsen again but loses top prize in FTX Crypto Cup Anand Mahindra, an Indian billionaire businessman and also the chairman of Mahindra Group, is known for his tweets on sporting icons of the country. Like many other countrymen, he remains in awe of Praggnanandhaa who continues to move up the ladder in his profession. "Fantastic finish towards the end! @rpragchess won in blitz tiebreak against Magnus #FTXCryptoCup ! Great defensive skills at crucial junctures, some good opening preparations, some bad decisions, overall very satisfying," coach R B Ramesh tweeted after the recent win over Carlsen. Final placings: 1. Magnus Carlsen 16 match points 2. R Praggnanandhaa 15 3. Alireza Firouzja 15 4. Liem Le 12 5. Jan-Krzystof Duda 11 6. Levon Aronian 8 7. Anish Giri 8. Hans Niemann 0.

Chess: Learn to pronounce his name - Indian tycoon after Praggnanandhaa defeats Carlsen

Young Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to outwit world No.1 Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup here on Monday.

However, despite the win over Carlsen, the 17-year-old could only take second place in the final standings. The Norwegian won the top prize on the basis of a higher score. He finished with 16 match points to the Indian prodigy's tally of 15.

"I've been playing badly all day, but now I'm getting the results I deserve... It's never good to lose, but this is as good a time as any!," Carlsen said after the match.

Alireza Firouzja, another highly-rated teen and a prodigy, also finished on 15 points but had to settle for third place as he had lost the clash against Praggnanandhaa earlier. The first two games of the Carlsen-Praggnanandhaa match were drawn before the world No.1 went ahead by clinching the third.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dommaraju-gukesh-to-r-praggnanandhaa-indias-excellent-depth-comes-to-fore-at-chennai-chess-olympiad-504795">Dommaraju Gukesh to R Praggnanandhaa: India's excellent depth comes to fore at Chennai Chess Olympiad</a>

In a surprise turn of events, the Indian won the fourth game to push the match into the tie-breaks. He shocked the Norwegian by winning both the games in the tie-break. Praggnanandhaa has been in splendid form this year and had previously beaten the world champion twice in online events.

He also played a crucial role in the India 'B' team claiming a bronze medal in the 44th chess Olympiad in Chennai recently.

"I think it could have done better the last few days but I think overall 2nd is good," Praggnanandhaa said after the game against Carlsen.

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Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon… (And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!) <a href="https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm">https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm</a>
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1561631997910724609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Praggnanandhaa started his campaign with victory over world No.4 Firouzja and also scored wins over Anish Giri and Levon Aronian.

"Fantastic finish towards the end! @rpragchess won in blitz tiebreak against Magnus #FTXCryptoCup ! Great defensive skills at crucial junctures, some good opening preparations, some bad decisions, overall very satisfying," his coach R B Ramesh tweeted.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chess-olympiad-india-b-team-wins-bronze-in-open-section-india-a-women-finish-also-finish-3rd-505213">Chess Olympiad -&nbsp;India B team wins bronze in Open section; India A women also finish 3rd</a>

In other matches in the final round, Firouzja beat Aronian 2.5-1.5, Quang Liem Le (China) beat Hans Niemann, while Jan-Krzystof of Poland thrashed Anish Giri 2.5-0.5.

The eight-player all-play-all tournament was the American finale of the Champions Chess Tour. Each match was played over four rapid games, with blitz tiebreaks in case of a 2-2 draw.

Final placings: 1. Magnus Carlsen 16 match points, 2. R Praggnanandhaa 15, 3. Alireza Firouzja 15, 4. Liem Le 12, 5. Jan-Krzystof Duda 11, 6. Levon Aronian 8, 7. Anish Giri, 8. Hans Niemann 0.

Young Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to outwit world No.1 Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup here on Monday.

Young Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa produced a superb performance, winning three straight games including two in the blitz tie-breaks to outwit world No.1 Magnus Carlsen 4-2 in the final round of the FTX Crypto Cup here on Monday. However, despite the win over Carlsen, the 17-year-old could only take second place in the final standings. The Norwegian won the top prize on the basis of a higher score. He finished with 16 match points to the Indian prodigy's tally of 15. "I've been playing badly all day, but now I'm getting the results I deserve... It's never good to lose, but this is as good a time as any!," Carlsen said after the match. Alireza Firouzja, another highly-rated teen and a prodigy, also finished on 15 points but had to settle for third place as he had lost the clash against Praggnanandhaa earlier. The first two games of the Carlsen-Praggnanandhaa match were drawn before the world No.1 went ahead by clinching the third. Also Read: Dommaraju Gukesh to R Praggnanandhaa: India's excellent depth comes to fore at Chennai Chess Olympiad In a surprise turn of events, the Indian won the fourth game to push the match into the tie-breaks. He shocked the Norwegian by winning both the games in the tie-break. Praggnanandhaa has been in splendid form this year and had previously beaten the world champion twice in online events. He also played a crucial role in the India 'B' team claiming a bronze medal in the 44th chess Olympiad in Chennai recently. "I think it could have done better the last few days but I think overall 2nd is good," Praggnanandhaa said after the game against Carlsen. Take a good look at that young, but intense face. If Chess is a Game of Thrones then there may be a new occupier of the throne soon… (And we should all learn how to spell his name correctly!) https://t.co/lLKWyO8XBm — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) August 22, 2022 × Praggnanandhaa started his campaign with victory over world No.4 Firouzja and also scored wins over Anish Giri and Levon Aronian. "Fantastic finish towards the end! @rpragchess won in blitz tiebreak against Magnus #FTXCryptoCup ! Great defensive skills at crucial junctures, some good opening preparations, some bad decisions, overall very satisfying," his coach R B Ramesh tweeted. Also Read: Chess Olympiad - India B team wins bronze in Open section; India A women also finish 3rd In other matches in the final round, Firouzja beat Aronian 2.5-1.5, Quang Liem Le (China) beat Hans Niemann, while Jan-Krzystof of Poland thrashed Anish Giri 2.5-0.5. The eight-player all-play-all tournament was the American finale of the Champions Chess Tour. Each match was played over four rapid games, with blitz tiebreaks in case of a 2-2 draw. Final placings: 1. Magnus Carlsen 16 match points, 2. R Praggnanandhaa 15, 3. Alireza Firouzja 15, 4. Liem Le 12, 5. Jan-Krzystof Duda 11, 6. Levon Aronian 8, 7. Anish Giri, 8. Hans Niemann 0.

R Praggnanandhaa beats World no.1 Magnus Carlsen again but loses top prize in FTX Crypto Cup

Going swimming would be a great way to cool off while the UK swelters in heatwaves, but if playing chess is one of your favourite pastimes, why not mix the two? On August 14, competitors in the Dive Chess World Championships in London did something similar.

Dive Chess World Championships: The ultimate battle of body & mind

India won a bronze medal in the open category at the Chess Olympiad this month. V Pranav became the 75th Indian to attain the grandmaster title in Chess.

India's Chess revolution: A new generation takes centrestage

The India 'B' team settled for a bronze medal in the Open section while India 'A' women's side also finished third in the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Tuesday. India 'B' defeated Germany 3-1 in their final round match to end at third position.

Uzbekistan sprung a surprise by bagging the gold medal with a 2-1 win over the Netherlands ahead of a strong Armenian team, which beat Spain 2.5-1.5 in the final round, in the Open section. The top-seeded India 'A' women's team crashed to a 1-3 defeat in the 11th and final round to USA to see it's gold medal hopes evaporate. The Koneru Humpy-led team finished third.

War-torn Ukraine won an emotional gold in the women's event, pipping Georgia to the top prize. Uzbekistan beat the Netherlands in the final round thanks to Jakhongir Vakhidov's win on board 4. They edged out Armenia on the basis of a better tie-break score. The Uzbeks remained unbeaten through the 11 rounds and finished with 19 match points. 
India 'B' ended up with 18 points for third place.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dommaraju-gukesh-to-r-praggnanandhaa-indias-excellent-depth-comes-to-fore-at-chennai-chess-olympiad-504795">Dommaraju Gukesh to R Praggnanandhaa: India's excellent depth comes to fore at Chennai Chess Olympiad</a>

It was the second bronze medal for India in the Olympiad, replicating its feat in the 2014 edition. The experienced B Adhiban, who was part of the team in 2014 added to his medal collection while it was the first for young stars D Gukesh, who was in spectacular form during the tournament, R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin and Raunak Sadhwani.

In the women's section, top player Koneru Humpy and R Vaishali drew their games against Gulrukhba Tokhirjonova and Irina Krush, respectively. The defeats for Tania Sachdev at the hands of Carissa Yip and Bhakthi Kulkarni to Tatev Abrahamyan hurt India 'A' team's chances of a gold medal.

Results:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-table-tennis-legend-sharath-kamal-wins-more-gold-medals-than-56-countries-at-cwg-2022-505181">Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal wins more gold medals than 56 countries at CWG 2022</a>

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Open: India's matches: India 'B' beat Germany 3-1 (D Gukesh drew with Vincent Keymer, Nihal Sarin beat Matthias Bluebaum, R Praggnanandhaa drew with Rasmus Svane, Raunak Sadhwani beat Liviu-Dieter Nispaenu).

India 'A' drew with USA 2-2 (P Harikrishna drew with Fabiano Caruana, Vidit Santosh Gujrathi drew with Wesley So, Arjun Erigaisi beat Linier Dominiguez Perez, S L Narayanan lost to Sam Shankland).

India 'C' drew with Kazakhstan 2-2 (Surya Shekhar Ganguly lost to Rinat Jumabayev, S P Sethuraman drew with Alisher Suleymenov, Karthikeyan Murali beat Arystanbek Urazayev, Abhimanyu Puranik drew with Kazybek Nogerbek).

Women: India 'A' lost to USA 1-3 (Koneru Humpy drew with Gulrukhba Tokhirjonova, R Vaishali drew with Irina Krush, Tania Sachdev lost to Carissa Yip, Bhakthi Kulkarni lost to Tatev Abrahamyan).

India 'C' lost to Kazakhstan 1.5-2/5 (Easha Karavade lost to Zhansaya Abdumalik, P V Nandhidhaa lost to Bibisara Assaubayeva, Varshini Sahiti drew with Xeniya Balabayeva, Pratyusha Bodda lost to Guliskhan Nakhbayeva).

India 'B' drew with Slovakia 2-2 (Vantika Agrawal drew with Zuzana Borosova, Padmini Rout lost to Eva Repkova, Mary Ann Gomes vs Zuzana Hagarova, Divya Deshmukh beat Svetlana Sucikova).

Other important results: Open: Armenia beat Spain 2.5-1.5, Uzbekistan beat the Netherlands 2.5-1.5.

The India 'B' team settled for a bronze medal in the Open section while India 'A' women's side also finished third in the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Tuesday. India 'B' defeated Germany 3-1 in their final round match to end at third position.

The India 'B' team settled for a bronze medal in the Open section while India 'A' women's side also finished third in the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Tuesday. India 'B' defeated Germany 3-1 in their final round match to end at third position. Uzbekistan sprung a surprise by bagging the gold medal with a 2-1 win over the Netherlands ahead of a strong Armenian team, which beat Spain 2.5-1.5 in the final round, in the Open section. The top-seeded India 'A' women's team crashed to a 1-3 defeat in the 11th and final round to USA to see it's gold medal hopes evaporate. The Koneru Humpy-led team finished third. War-torn Ukraine won an emotional gold in the women's event, pipping Georgia to the top prize. Uzbekistan beat the Netherlands in the final round thanks to Jakhongir Vakhidov's win on board 4. They edged out Armenia on the basis of a better tie-break score. The Uzbeks remained unbeaten through the 11 rounds and finished with 19 match points. India 'B' ended up with 18 points for third place. Also Read: Dommaraju Gukesh to R Praggnanandhaa: India's excellent depth comes to fore at Chennai Chess Olympiad It was the second bronze medal for India in the Olympiad, replicating its feat in the 2014 edition. The experienced B Adhiban, who was part of the team in 2014 added to his medal collection while it was the first for young stars D Gukesh, who was in spectacular form during the tournament, R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin and Raunak Sadhwani. In the women's section, top player Koneru Humpy and R Vaishali drew their games against Gulrukhba Tokhirjonova and Irina Krush, respectively. The defeats for Tania Sachdev at the hands of Carissa Yip and Bhakthi Kulkarni to Tatev Abrahamyan hurt India 'A' team's chances of a gold medal. Results: Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal wins more gold medals than 56 countries at CWG 2022 × Open: India's matches: India 'B' beat Germany 3-1 (D Gukesh drew with Vincent Keymer, Nihal Sarin beat Matthias Bluebaum, R Praggnanandhaa drew with Rasmus Svane, Raunak Sadhwani beat Liviu-Dieter Nispaenu). India 'A' drew with USA 2-2 (P Harikrishna drew with Fabiano Caruana, Vidit Santosh Gujrathi drew with Wesley So, Arjun Erigaisi beat Linier Dominiguez Perez, S L Narayanan lost to Sam Shankland). India 'C' drew with Kazakhstan 2-2 (Surya Shekhar Ganguly lost to Rinat Jumabayev, S P Sethuraman drew with Alisher Suleymenov, Karthikeyan Murali beat Arystanbek Urazayev, Abhimanyu Puranik drew with Kazybek Nogerbek). Women: India 'A' lost to USA 1-3 (Koneru Humpy drew with Gulrukhba Tokhirjonova, R Vaishali drew with Irina Krush, Tania Sachdev lost to Carissa Yip, Bhakthi Kulkarni lost to Tatev Abrahamyan). India 'C' lost to Kazakhstan 1.5-2/5 (Easha Karavade lost to Zhansaya Abdumalik, P V Nandhidhaa lost to Bibisara Assaubayeva, Varshini Sahiti drew with Xeniya Balabayeva, Pratyusha Bodda lost to Guliskhan Nakhbayeva). India 'B' drew with Slovakia 2-2 (Vantika Agrawal drew with Zuzana Borosova, Padmini Rout lost to Eva Repkova, Mary Ann Gomes vs Zuzana Hagarova, Divya Deshmukh beat Svetlana Sucikova). Other important results: Open: Armenia beat Spain 2.5-1.5, Uzbekistan beat the Netherlands 2.5-1.5.

Chess Olympiad: India B team wins bronze in Open section; India A women also finish 3rd

Anna Ushenina, Ukraine's first women’s world champion, is from Kharkiv, just 30 miles from the Russia border and one of the heavily shelled cities in the invasion.

44th Chess olympiad concludes in Chennai, Ukraine win gold in women's category

India have been enjoying a stellar run at the ongoing Chess Olympiad in Chennai where there are a total of three Indian teams competing against some of the best chess-playing nations in the world. India have fielded A, B and C teams being the hosts of the Olympiad which has also brought to shore their incredible depth in the game.&nbsp;

There is no dearth of talent in chess for India but being a nation obsessed with cricket, there is still a long way to go for the country in nurturing talent in a proper way to get to a century of Grand Masters. India currently has 75 Grand Masters with 16-year-old V. Pranav the latest to join the elite list.&nbsp;

Pranav, who is not part of the Chess Olympiad in Chennai, became India's 75th Grandmaster on Sunday after winning the LImpede Open in Romania. With the win, he secured his third and final GM norm to attain the title of Grandmaster. While he is not at the Chess Olympiad, India has some top minds competing at the showpiece event. India now stands only behind Russia (256), USA (101), Germany (96) and Ukraine (94) in the list of countries with the most Grandmasters.

One of those is Dommaraju Gukesh. The 16-year-old has been unstoppable so far at the Chess Olympiad and registered his best victory at the tournament against USA’s Fabiano Caruana last week. Gukesh defeated world no.5 Caruana as India B got the better of the US team comprising of the likes of Carunand, Levon Aronian and Wesley So, who are ranked no.5,6 and 7 in the world rankings respectively.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pv-sindhu-thrashes-michelle-li-to-bag-first-ever-womens-singles-gold-medal-at-cwg-2022-504764">PV Sindhu thrashes Michelle Li to bag first-ever women's singles gold medal at CWG 2022</a>

However, they were defeated by the India B team comprising of teenage prodigies Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa and Raunak Sadhwani, who are all 16. Nihal Sarin, the other member of the team is 18. While Gukesh defeated Caruana to bag his 8th win on the trot in the tournament, Sadhwani defeated a higher-rated Leinier Domínguez. Sarin and Praggnanandhaa drew their respective matches.

Gukesh has stormed into the world top 20 with his heroics at the Chennai Chess Olympiad and is only behind the legendary&nbsp;Viswanathan Anand, who is at the 12th spot. While Gukesh has been making waves with his performances, Praggnanandhaa needs no introduction.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-arshad-nadeem-1st-south-asian-to-breach-90m-mark-claims-gold-in-javelin-throw-at-cwg-2022-504717">Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem 1st south Asian to breach 90m mark, claims gold in javelin throw at CWG 2022</a>

Praggnanandhaa, who is only the third Indian to have defeated Magnus Carlsen, the world no.1, saved India's day at the Olympiad by beating Vasif Durarbayli to help the B team draw 2-2 against Azerbaijan. India B faced some anxious moments in their clash against Azerbaijan as Gukesh's 8-match winning streak ended with a draw against Shakhriyar Mamedyarov. However,&nbsp;Praggnanandhaa kept India in the gold medal race with his victory.

India's A team, who are the second seed in the tournament this year, defeated Brazil 3-1 to progress further as&nbsp;Arjun Erigaisi, and K Sasikaran won their respective matches while P Harikrishna and Vidit Gujrathi settled with draws. That both India's A and B teams remain in contention for a medal finish showcases India's rise and rise in chess in recent years.

India have been enjoying a stellar run at the ongoing Chess Olympiad in Chennai where there are a total of three Indian teams competing against some of the best chess-playing nations in the world.

India have been enjoying a stellar run at the ongoing Chess Olympiad in Chennai where there are a total of three Indian teams competing against some of the best chess-playing nations in the world. India have fielded A, B and C teams being the hosts of the Olympiad which has also brought to shore their incredible depth in the game. There is no dearth of talent in chess for India but being a nation obsessed with cricket, there is still a long way to go for the country in nurturing talent in a proper way to get to a century of Grand Masters. India currently has 75 Grand Masters with 16-year-old V. Pranav the latest to join the elite list. Pranav, who is not part of the Chess Olympiad in Chennai, became India's 75th Grandmaster on Sunday after winning the LImpede Open in Romania. With the win, he secured his third and final GM norm to attain the title of Grandmaster. While he is not at the Chess Olympiad, India has some top minds competing at the showpiece event. India now stands only behind Russia (256), USA (101), Germany (96) and Ukraine (94) in the list of countries with the most Grandmasters. One of those is Dommaraju Gukesh. The 16-year-old has been unstoppable so far at the Chess Olympiad and registered his best victory at the tournament against USA’s Fabiano Caruana last week. Gukesh defeated world no.5 Caruana as India B got the better of the US team comprising of the likes of Carunand, Levon Aronian and Wesley So, who are ranked no.5,6 and 7 in the world rankings respectively. Also Read: PV Sindhu thrashes Michelle Li to bag first-ever women's singles gold medal at CWG 2022 However, they were defeated by the India B team comprising of teenage prodigies Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa and Raunak Sadhwani, who are all 16. Nihal Sarin, the other member of the team is 18. While Gukesh defeated Caruana to bag his 8th win on the trot in the tournament, Sadhwani defeated a higher-rated Leinier Domínguez. Sarin and Praggnanandhaa drew their respective matches. Gukesh has stormed into the world top 20 with his heroics at the Chennai Chess Olympiad and is only behind the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who is at the 12th spot. While Gukesh has been making waves with his performances, Praggnanandhaa needs no introduction. Also Read: Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem 1st south Asian to breach 90m mark, claims gold in javelin throw at CWG 2022 Praggnanandhaa, who is only the third Indian to have defeated Magnus Carlsen, the world no.1, saved India's day at the Olympiad by beating Vasif Durarbayli to help the B team draw 2-2 against Azerbaijan. India B faced some anxious moments in their clash against Azerbaijan as Gukesh's 8-match winning streak ended with a draw against Shakhriyar Mamedyarov. However, Praggnanandhaa kept India in the gold medal race with his victory. India's A team, who are the second seed in the tournament this year, defeated Brazil 3-1 to progress further as Arjun Erigaisi, and K Sasikaran won their respective matches while P Harikrishna and Vidit Gujrathi settled with draws. That both India's A and B teams remain in contention for a medal finish showcases India's rise and rise in chess in recent years.

Dommaraju Gukesh to R Praggnanandhaa: India's excellent depth comes to fore at Chennai Chess Olympiad

The India 'A' and 'B' teams registered comprehensive victories in the seventh round in the Open section of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and SL Narayanan secured wins over Abhijeet Gupta and Abhimanyu Puranik as India 'A', the second seeds, outclassed India 'C' 3-1.

Teenaged GM D Gukesh continued his dream run, notching up a seventh straight win in the event, beating Cuban GM Carlos Albornoz Cabrera to help India 'B' record a crushing 3.5-0.5 win. It is the sixth win from seven rounds for the team which also includes GMs R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin and B Adhiban. Top-ranked USA took a 2-1 lead against Armenia, who were in the lead after six rounds with as many wins.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-third-anniversary-of-abrogation-of-article-370-football-stadium-thrown-open-504063">On third anniversary of abrogation of Article 370, football stadium thrown open</a>

In the women's section, leaders - India 'A', the top-seeds, saw their best player Koneru Humpy go down to Gunay Mammadzada of Azerbaijan, while D Harika drew with Khanim Balajyeva before Tania Sachdev and R Vaishali defeated Ulviyya Fataliyeva and Govhar Beydullayeva to set up a 2.5-1.5 win.

The come from behind victory ensured that India 'A' extended their winning streak to seven with four more rounds to be played. India 'B' lost 1.5-2.5 to Greece as Vantika Agrawal and Soumya Swaminathan suffered defeats even as the host's 'C' team took a winning 2.5-0.5 lead against Switzerland riding on wins for Easha Karavade and P V Nandhidhaa.

The India 'A' and 'B' teams registered comprehensive victories in the seventh round in the Open section of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and SL Narayanan secured wins over Abhijeet Gupta and Abhimanyu Puranik as India 'A', the second seeds, outclassed India 'C' 3-1.

The India 'A' and 'B' teams registered comprehensive victories in the seventh round in the Open section of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and SL Narayanan secured wins over Abhijeet Gupta and Abhimanyu Puranik as India 'A', the second seeds, outclassed India 'C' 3-1. Teenaged GM D Gukesh continued his dream run, notching up a seventh straight win in the event, beating Cuban GM Carlos Albornoz Cabrera to help India 'B' record a crushing 3.5-0.5 win. It is the sixth win from seven rounds for the team which also includes GMs R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin and B Adhiban. Top-ranked USA took a 2-1 lead against Armenia, who were in the lead after six rounds with as many wins. ALSO READ | On third anniversary of abrogation of Article 370, football stadium thrown open In the women's section, leaders - India 'A', the top-seeds, saw their best player Koneru Humpy go down to Gunay Mammadzada of Azerbaijan, while D Harika drew with Khanim Balajyeva before Tania Sachdev and R Vaishali defeated Ulviyya Fataliyeva and Govhar Beydullayeva to set up a 2.5-1.5 win. The come from behind victory ensured that India 'A' extended their winning streak to seven with four more rounds to be played. India 'B' lost 1.5-2.5 to Greece as Vantika Agrawal and Soumya Swaminathan suffered defeats even as the host's 'C' team took a winning 2.5-0.5 lead against Switzerland riding on wins for Easha Karavade and P V Nandhidhaa.

Chess Olympiad: India 'A', 'B' register comprehensive victories in Open section

Indian teams made winning starts in the Open and women's sections of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Top-seeded Indian women's A team beat Tajikistan while the B side got the better of Wales. Both the Indian teams have taken unassailable 3-0 leads over their respective opponents. India's star player Koneru Humpy, playing on the top board, R Vaishali and Bhakti Kulkarni secured victories to ensure a winning start.

The Indian C team too began with a win. The three Indian teams in the men's event posted wins in the first round matches over Zimbabwe, UAE and South Sudan respectively. The opening round of the Chess Olympiad was inaugurated by Sports Minister Anurag Thakur by making the first move on Indian player Vidit Gujrathi's board.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-modi-inaugurates-44th-chess-olympiad-team-us-top-seed-india-second-501527">PM Modi inaugurates 44th Chess Olympiad: Team US top seed, India second</a>

Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, All India Chess Federation President Sanjay Kapoor and Olympiad Director Bharat Singh Chauhan were also present on the occasion.

Indian teams made winning starts in the Open and women's sections of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Top-seeded Indian women's A team beat Tajikistan while the B side got the better of Wales.

Indian teams made winning starts in the Open and women's sections of the 44th Chess Olympiad here on Friday. Top-seeded Indian women's A team beat Tajikistan while the B side got the better of Wales. Both the Indian teams have taken unassailable 3-0 leads over their respective opponents. India's star player Koneru Humpy, playing on the top board, R Vaishali and Bhakti Kulkarni secured victories to ensure a winning start. The Indian C team too began with a win. The three Indian teams in the men's event posted wins in the first round matches over Zimbabwe, UAE and South Sudan respectively. The opening round of the Chess Olympiad was inaugurated by Sports Minister Anurag Thakur by making the first move on Indian player Vidit Gujrathi's board. ALSO READ | PM Modi inaugurates 44th Chess Olympiad: Team US top seed, India second Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, All India Chess Federation President Sanjay Kapoor and Olympiad Director Bharat Singh Chauhan were also present on the occasion.

Chess Olympiad: Indian teams off to a flyer with winning starts

Did you know? Chess originated in India. The game dates back to 600 AD. India is currently celebrating the homecoming of chess- it is hosting the 44th Chess Olympiad. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India hosts 44th International Chess Olympiad

India is hosting the 44th edition of Chess Olympiad in Chennai. Meanwhile, Pakistan has withdrawn from the Olympiad over India's torch relay through Kashmir on July 21.

WION Dispatch: First-ever Chess Olympiad in 'Home of Chess' | Pak backs out at the last minute

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