Indian chess prodigy D. Gukesh has once again made headlines by stunning World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen not just once, but twice in recent weeks. His latest triumph came during a rapid game at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb on Thursday, July 3, 2025. This impressive win marks Gukesh's fifth straight victory in the tournament, putting him in the lead and solidifying his reputation as a serious contender in the chess world.

This rapid chess showdown followed Gukesh's groundbreaking win against Carlsen in a classical match at Norway Chess just last month. That game was particularly special, as it marked Gukesh's first classical victory over the reigning world champion, sending shockwaves through the global chess community. Before the tournament in Croatia, Carlsen had downplayed Gukesh's skills in rapid and blitz formats, suggesting he would approach their game as if he were facing "one of the presumably weaker players." Gukesh's powerful performance on the board has certainly put those doubts to rest.

The 18-year-old's display in Zagreb has been nothing short of remarkable, showcasing not only his strategic brilliance but also his incredible resilience. After an early loss in the tournament, Gukesh bounced back with a five-game winning streak, culminating in his decisive win over Carlsen. His ability to rebound from setbacks and outshine top players like Carlsen speaks volumes about his maturity and fighting spirit, which is impressive for someone so young.

Chess legends such as Garry Kasparov and Susan Polgar have been quick to commend Gukesh's outstanding play. Kasparov notably remarked that Gukesh's convincing victory over Carlsen raises questions about Carlsen's previous "domination." These recent wins highlight a significant shift in the chess landscape, with Gukesh consistently proving that he is not just a rising star, but a true contender at the highest levels of the game.