R Praggnanandhaa Shines at Norway Chess 2026 with Key Victory
R Praggnanandhaa's Impressive Performance
Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa is making waves at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament held in Oslo. Following his remarkable victory over World No.1 Magnus Carlsen, the 20-year-old continued his strong performance by securing a vital half-point in Round 4 against Vincent Keymer, propelling him to second place in the overall rankings. After a 46-move stalemate in their Classical match, Praggnanandhaa triumphed in the Armageddon tiebreaker while playing with the black pieces. This win brings his total to 6 points, placing him just behind tournament leader Alireza Firouzja. Reflecting on the match, Praggnanandhaa remarked on the chaotic nature of the time control as the game progressed. "It wasn't as hectic as yesterday, but both of us had significant opportunities that we missed. In this time control, it often feels like a rapid game," he shared in an exclusive interview.
A Humble Champion
'Happy That I Played Well'
While Armageddon tiebreakers are often characterized by frantic time scrambles, Praggnanandhaa felt that this particular match was an exception. Remaining modest about his success, he stated, "It's just one Armageddon that went my way. I'm pleased with my performance, but these games are typically decided by quick decisions. This one was different, but it's still just one game."
Norway Chess 2026 R. Praggnanandhaa opens up to @karishmasingh22 on his matches at Norway Chess, intense time scrambles, and what rest days really look like — from recovery to rare behind-the-scenes moments off the board. | WATCH pic.twitter.com/EsAqCQyUfk
— News Media (@TimesNow) May 29, 2026
Looking Ahead
'I Just Want The Rest Day'
With the intense match now behind him and a highly anticipated game against fellow Indian D Gukesh on the horizon, Praggnanandhaa's primary focus is on recovery. Having just come from a competition in Bucharest, he expressed his need for a break. "For now, I just want the rest day. I've been playing continuously. I played in Bucharest as well, so I'll take a rest day anytime," he admitted. While a chess player's rest day typically involves relaxation, the organizers of Norway Chess have planned various activities for the players. For Praggnanandhaa, this offers a refreshing change of pace. "Usually, it’s just resting, but I guess there's something planned tomorrow, so we'll have to be present there... I mean, it's my first time. I always watch these videos and so on. It'll be interesting," he concluded.