Gukesh settles for pragmatic 3rd place; Magnus Carlsen shrugs and clucks his way to Zagreb victory

Magnus Carlsen Dominates Zagreb Grand Chess Tour; Gukesh Secures Strategic Third Place

In the chess capital of Croatia, Zagreb, the 2025 edition of the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz came to a dramatic finish with Magnus Carlsen once again proving why he’s still the titan of fast-paced formats. The five-time World Champion sealed his dominance with a combination of calculated aggression and effortless flair, while India’s young prodigy D Gukesh tactfully navigated the tense final rounds to secure a pragmatic third-place finish.

The tournament, part of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour, featured a formidable lineup, including Fabiano Caruana, Wesley So, Ian Nepomniachtchi, Alireza Firouzja, and other elite players. Yet it was Carlsen’s commanding performance that stole the spotlight.

A Calm Champion with a Competitive Edge

Carlsen started the blitz rounds slightly behind the leader but quickly gained momentum, putting together a string of powerful wins. Whether it was tactical swindles or subtle positional squeezes, Carlsen showcased the full range of his skillset. But what truly captivated fans and commentators alike was his ease under pressure.

Viewers noticed Carlsen often shrugging off mistakes and even clucking in amusement at missed opportunities—classic Carlsen trademarks that display his ability to remain relaxed even in high-stakes situations. His confidence translated into results, as he surged past his closest competitors with clinical precision.

“I didn’t play perfectly, but I kept things under control,” Carlsen said after the tournament. “It’s always a joy to play in Zagreb. The energy here is great, and the field was tough.”

With this win, Carlsen cements his position at the top of the Grand Chess Tour leaderboard and sends a clear message ahead of the upcoming Sinquefield Cup.

Gukesh’s Rise Continues with Smart Strategy

While Carlsen’s triumph drew headlines, D Gukesh’s quiet brilliance was one of the most compelling subplots of the event. The 18-year-old from Chennai didn’t go for flashy sacrifices or reckless play in the final rounds. Instead, he chose a measured, pragmatic approach, picking up vital points with precision and avoiding risky complications.

After a strong showing in the rapid segment, Gukesh entered the blitz rounds knowing that consistency would be key. He neutralized dangerous opponents with solid opening preparation and showed excellent time management in crunch moments.

Gukesh’s maturity was evident in his decision to settle for draws in positions where pushing too hard could have backfired. His third-place finish reflects both his tactical discipline and long-term mindset.

“It was a conscious decision to play safe when needed,” Gukesh explained. “Sometimes you have to play the tournament situation, not just the board. Third place in such a strong field is definitely encouraging.”

This tournament marks yet another milestone in Gukesh’s steady climb up the chess ladder. He continues to gain experience and respect, not just from fans but from seasoned grandmasters around the world.

An Electrifying Tournament in Zagreb

The SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz event in Zagreb is known for its electric atmosphere, drawing chess fans from across Europe and beyond. With a mix of rapid and blitz games played over several days, the format demands adaptability, stamina, and a killer instinct. Carlsen’s win in such a format adds further weight to his reputation as the best all-around player of the modern era.

For spectators, it was a treat to witness a range of styles—Carlsen’s controlled chaos, Gukesh’s patient calculation, Firouzja’s explosive tactics, and Wesley So’s classical elegance. The fast time controls also led to plenty of drama, including time scrambles, blunders, and miraculous saves.

What Lies Ahead

The Grand Chess Tour now moves toward its final legs, with the Sinquefield Cup and other classical events on the horizon. Carlsen remains the player to beat, but Gukesh’s growing presence adds a new dimension to the global chess narrative. His ability to adapt his style to suit different formats is making him a strong contender not just in classical chess, but also in rapid and blitz.

As Carlsen enjoys yet another triumph, it’s clear that the chess world remains in awe of his brilliance. But alongside him, a new generation is making its mark—and Gukesh is leading the charge.