Chess world cup 2023 final: Carlsen beats Praggnanandhaa
The chess world cup 2023 final was a historic event that saw the clash of two generations of chess prodigies: Magnus Carlsen, the world number one and five-time world champion, and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, the youngest grandmaster in history and the first Indian player to reach the final. The match was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from August 22 to August 25, and it was a thrilling battle that went to the tie-breakers after two draws in the classical games.
The first game of the final was a tense Sicilian Najdorf, where Praggnanandhaa surprised Carlsen with an early novelty on move 10. The game became sharp and complex, with both players sacrificing material and creating threats. Carlsen managed to defend accurately and reached an endgame with a rook and two pawns against a bishop and four pawns. Praggnanandhaa tried to push his extra pawns, but Carlsen showed his endgame prowess and held the draw after 35 moves.
The second game of the final was a quieter affair, as Carlsen opted for a solid Catalan opening with white. Praggnanandhaa played solidly as well, and the game soon reached a balanced position with symmetrical pawn structure. Neither player could find a way to create any imbalance or advantage, and they agreed to a draw after 30 moves.
The tie-breakers consisted of two rapid games (25 minutes plus 10 seconds increment), followed by two blitz games (10 minutes plus 10 seconds increment), and finally an Armageddon game (5 minutes for white, 4 minutes for black, with a draw counting as a win for black). The first rapid game was a decisive one, as Praggnanandhaa played an aggressive Italian game with white and obtained a promising attack on the kingside. However, Carlsen defended resourcefully and counterattacked on the queenside. The game became a wild race of passed pawns, where Carlsen prevailed by sacrificing his rook for Praggnanandhaa’s last pawn and promoting his own pawn to a queen. Praggnanandhaa resigned on move 54.
The second rapid game was a must-win situation for Praggnanandhaa, who had black. Carlsen chose a calm Ruy Lopez opening and exchanged queens early. Praggnanandhaa tried to create some complications by sacrificing a pawn, but Carlsen was in full control and consolidated his position. He gradually increased his pressure on the weak black pawns and forced Praggnanandhaa to give up another pawn. The endgame was hopeless for black, who had no counterplay against Carlsen’s rook and bishop. Praggnanandhaa resigned on move 41.
Carlsen won the match by 2.5-1.5 and became the world cup champion for the first time in his career. He also qualified for the candidates tournament 2024, where he will have the chance to challenge himself for the world title. Praggnanandhaa finished as the runner-up and also qualified for the candidates tournament, becoming the youngest player ever to do so. He also won a prize of $110,000, while Carlsen won $120,000.
The chess world cup 2023 final was a remarkable display of chess skills, fighting spirit, and sportsmanship by both players. They showed respect and admiration for each other throughout the match and congratulated each other warmly after the last game. The chess fans around the world were treated to an exciting and high-quality match that will be remembered for years to come.