Oslo, June 3, 2026: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa scripted another memorable chapter in his career by defeating World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen for the second time at Norway Chess 2026, becoming the first player in 19 years to achieve the feat in a classical tournament.
After defeating Carlsen with the white pieces in Round 3 on May 27, the 20-year-old from Chennai stunned the Norwegian once again in Round 8, this time playing with the black pieces. The victory places Praggnanandhaa in an exclusive club, with the last player to beat Carlsen twice in the same classical tournament being Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand at the Linares International Chess Tournament in 2007.
The achievement is even more remarkable considering Praggnanandhaa had also defeated Carlsen during the 2024 edition of Norway Chess, highlighting his growing success against one of the greatest players in the history of the game.
Despite the significance of the win, Praggnanandhaa remained focused on the larger objective of the tournament rather than the individual result.
“More than beating Magnus, I think winning a game in this tournament is more important at this stage. So, I’m happy that I managed to do that,” he told ChessBase India after the match.
The latest triumph strengthens Praggnanandhaa’s challenge for the Norway Chess title and further cements his status as one of the brightest stars of Indian chess. His calm approach and consistent performances against elite opposition continue to underline why he is regarded as a leading figure in the next generation of world chess.