In a groundbreaking moment at the Norway Chess 2025 tournament, Indian chess sensation D Gukesh pulled off a stunning upset by defeating former world champion Magnus Carlsen in Round 6 of the classical format. At just 18 years old, Gukesh showcased an incredible performance, turning around a tough position to claim his first classical victory over Carlsen. This thrilling match, held in Stavanger, has captivated the global chess community and marks a pivotal point in Gukesh's swiftly ascending career.

The game kicked off with Carlsen taking charge, displaying his usual positional genius. For most of the match, the Norwegian icon held a strong advantage, forcing Gukesh into a defensive role. However, as the clock ticked down, Carlsen made an unexpected blunder that shifted the momentum in Gukesh’s direction. With remarkable precision and composure, the Indian grandmaster capitalized on the mistake, securing a win that could significantly alter the tournament standings and impact the global chess landscape.

This victory is not just a personal achievement for Gukesh; he becomes only the second Indian, following R Praggnanandhaa, to defeat Magnus Carlsen at Norway Chess. The outcome also tightens the race at the top of the leaderboard, placing Gukesh just one point behind co-leaders Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana. With only a few rounds remaining, Gukesh’s win injects new energy and unpredictability into the tournament. His rising confidence and mature gameplay hint at a potential shift in the long-term power dynamics at the elite level of chess.

The emotional fallout from the match was equally revealing. Carlsen, visibly upset, slammed his fist on the table after the defeat — a rare display of emotion from the typically composed grandmaster. In stark contrast, Gukesh maintained his calm and focus, showcasing his mental fortitude and preparation. As the chess world processes Gukesh’s remarkable victory over Magnus, it’s clear that this match will be remembered for years to come.