Zagreb: D Gukesh, the reigning world champion, shocked world number one Magnus Carlsen once again at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb, extending his winning streak to five on Thursday.
There were no furious fist slams on the table or animated reactions from Carlsen, who once again misstepped from a winning position. Gukesh, standing victorious, became the sole leader with 10 points at the conclusion of the second day, with Carlsen trailing with six points. Gukesh has a two-point lead over Jan Krzysztof Duda, his closest competitor, going into the final round of matches.
Last month, Gukesh secured a remarkable victory over the former world number one in Round 6 of the Norway Chess and maintained his blazing form. Carlsen positioned himself with the white pieces, while Gukesh tried to gain control with the black pieces.
The Norwegian had an early advantage and attempted to make openings against the teenage Indian grandmaster in the rapid game. The game shifted entirely in Gukesh's favour when he erred by deciding to advance his b pawn to b4. Gukesh took command from that point, compelling Carlsen to retreat in the gripping encounter.
With less than 30 seconds on the clock for Carlsen, the Norwegian understood the outcome of the game and opted to quit. He shook Gukesh's hand neutrally, without making eye contact or displaying much emotion.
Now we can question Magnus' dominance, as this is not only his second defeat to Gukesh, but also a convincing one, according to former world champion Garry Kasparov, who commented on the official stream. Kasparov was not impressed by Carlsen's choice to advance his pawn to b4.
Gukesh was happy to reverse the fight after muddling up a few of his early moves and stated after the contest, "Beating Magnus is always special, and this gives a bit more confidence." I had a terrible opening.
