World Champion D. Gukesh has delivered a resounding response to his critics with a spectacular comeback at the Norway Chess Tournament. He first stunned everyone by defeating chess legend Magnus Carlsen, and now, in the seventh round, he has defeated his compatriot and b rival Arjun Erigaisi.
Sports News: World Chess Champion D. Gukesh once again emphatically silenced his critics at Norway Chess 2025, proving himself not only the current champion but also a future chess emperor. He secured his second major victory in the tournament by defeating his fellow Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi in a classical match in the seventh round. Previously, Gukesh had created a sensation by defeating former World Champion and chess icon Magnus Carlsen in the sixth round.
This victory is especially significant as it marks Gukesh's first classical win over Erigaisi. He had never previously defeated Arjun in a classical match. With this win, Gukesh surpassed Magnus Carlsen in the standings, claiming second place. Only Fabiano Caruana of the USA, who defeated Chinese player Wei Yi in the same round, stands ahead of him.
Initially Behind, But Then a Comeback
The match was nothing short of a thriller. In the opening moves, Arjun Erigaisi adopted an aggressive strategy and gained control of the match. Many analysts began to believe Gukesh might lose, especially after he made a mistake that appeared to give Arjun a decisive advantage. However, that's when the match took a turn.
In his trademark style, Gukesh gradually stabilized the game, using subtle calculations and defensive moves to weaken Arjun's advantage. As the time pressure mounted, Arjun's moves began to show some uncertainty. Gukesh, meanwhile, increased the pace at the right moment and entangled Arjun.
A Strategic Masterpiece
The way Gukesh neutralized Arjun's advantage demonstrates why he deserves to be the World Champion. He not only defended in the match but slowly turned the situation in his favor. At a crucial juncture, when Arjun needed to consolidate his attack, he fell into time trouble. Gukesh, with precise technique and a calm mind, made one move after another, forcing Arjun to concede defeat.
With this victory, Gukesh showed that his win against Magnus Carlsen was no fluke. Two consecutive classical victories—against two of the world's most talented players—prove that Gukesh is no longer just a talented player but also a highly dangerous and experienced finisher.
At one point in this tournament, Gukesh was fifth in the standings. But two consecutive victories have propelled him directly into the top two. He now has a golden opportunity to win the title.
