Did Pranesh Really Clinch the Challengers Crown at Chennai GM 2025?
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Synopsis
The Chennai Grandmasters 2025 concluded with Grandmaster M. Pranesh clinching the Challengers title, securing his entry into next year's Masters section. With dramatic matches and surprising outcomes, this edition showcased some of the finest chess talents in India. Discover how Pranesh's performance stood out among elite competitors!
Key Takeaways
- M. Pranesh won the Challengers title, securing a spot in the Masters.
- Vincent Keymer became the first sole Masters champion of the tournament.
- The event featured a total prize fund of ₹1 crore.
- This tournament showcased the best of Indian chess talent.
- Chennai Grandmasters continues to grow in prestige and participation.
Chennai, Aug 15 (NationPress) Grandmaster (GM) M. Pranesh successfully retained the Challengers title at the Chennai Grandmasters 2025, securing his place in the Masters section for next year, even after a final-round challenge from IM Harshavardhan GB. The 19-year-old had established a sufficient lead prior to the last day, managing to stay ahead of GM Abhimanyu Puranik, GM Adhiban Baskaran, and GM Leon Luke Mendonca, all of whom were unable to take advantage of the opportunities presented elsewhere.
In the Masters category, GM Vincent Keymer completed his already assured victory in remarkable fashion, defeating GM Ray Robson with black pieces to cap off a dominant tournament performance. Arjun Erigaisi found himself among three players sharing second place, joining GM Karthikeyan Murali and GM Anish Giri on the winners' pedestal.
Now in its third edition, the Chennai Grandmasters has solidified its position as India’s premier classical chess event. Organized by MGD1, the 2025 edition featured two elite 10-player round-robins—Masters and Challengers—spanning nine exhilarating days, with a prize pool of ₹1 crore.
On the final day of the Chennai Grandmasters 2025, the Challengers section saw thrilling moments as Pa Iniyan surprised Abhimanyu Puranik, while Adhiban Baskaran triumphed over Leon Luke Mendonca in a match that brought him level in points with Leon and Abhimanyu in second position. Diptayan Ghosh and Aryan Chopra also concluded on a positive note, overcoming Vaishali Rameshbabu and Harika Dronavalli, respectively.
Apart from Keymer’s victory in the Masters section, Arjun Erigaisi and Karthikeyan Murali drew their match, Awonder Liang was held to a draw by Vidit Gujrathi, and Nihal Sarin outperformed Pranav V. to advance into the mid-table. The standout performance of the day came from Anish Giri, who defeated Jordan van Foreest with black pieces, joining Arjun and Karthikeyan in second place.
Keymer’s victory not only awarded him ₹25 lakh, a spot in the world’s top 10, and 24 FIDE Circuit points towards the 2026 Candidates, but also the honor of becoming the tournament’s first sole Masters champion. In the Challengers, Pranesh emerged as a surprise winner, taking home ₹7 Lakhs along with a spot in the 2026 Masters.
Point of View
The Chennai Grandmasters 2025 showcased not only the brilliance of seasoned players but also highlighted the emergence of new talents like M. Pranesh. Such tournaments are crucial for fostering chess in India and elevating the country's status in the global chess arena. The blend of experience and youthful vigor seen in this tournament reflects the growing popularity and competitiveness of chess in India.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chennai Grandmasters 2025?
The Chennai Grandmasters 2025 is a premier classical chess tournament held in Chennai, featuring two 10-player round-robins: Masters and Challengers.
Who won the Challengers title?
Grandmaster M. Pranesh won the Challengers title at the Chennai Grandmasters 2025.
What prize did M. Pranesh receive?
M. Pranesh received ₹7 Lakhs and a place in the Masters section for the next tournament.
How did Vincent Keymer perform?
Vincent Keymer secured the Masters title by defeating GM Ray Robson, finishing the tournament with an impressive performance.
What is the significance of this tournament?
The Chennai Grandmasters has established itself as a leading classical chess tournament in India, attracting top talent and offering significant prize funds.
