In a stunning turn of events, Indian Grandmaster Pranesh M emerged victorious in the latest edition of Chess.com's Titled Tuesday, overcoming stiff competition and ultimately edging out world number one, Magnus Carlsen. The online tournament, held on November 25, 2025, saw Pranesh navigate a challenging field of titled players to claim the top spot in a thrilling finish.
The tournament, a weekly event on Chess.com, is an 11-round Swiss tournament that attracts titled players from around the globe. Titled Tuesday has become a staple in the online chess community, offering a platform for grandmasters, international masters, and other titled players to test their skills and compete for a prize fund.
Pranesh's victory was hard-earned, with five players tied for first place after 10 rounds, setting the stage for a dramatic final round. In a wild and exciting last game, Pranesh and Carlsen both fought for the win. Ultimately, Pranesh prevailed, securing the tournament victory on tiebreaks. The final game showcased Pranesh's tactical acumen and composure under pressure, as he navigated a complex position against one of the greatest chess players of all time.
Magnus Carlsen, a frequent participant and dominant force in Titled Tuesday events, was hot on Pranesh's heels throughout the tournament. Carlsen has won the second-most Titled Tuesday events since October 20, 2020, with 41 total victories. Despite a strong performance, Carlsen was unable to secure the outright win, highlighting the increasing competitiveness of the Titled Tuesday field.
Pranesh's triumph is not his first success in online rapid tournaments. He also won Freestyle Friday on November 21, edging out Magnus Carlsen.
The Titled Tuesday tournaments occur every Tuesday and start at 17:00 Central European time. The tournament has evolved over the years. On September 2, 2025, the time control changed from 3+1 to 5+0 as Titled Tuesday became part of the Champions Chess Tour and Esports World Cup cycle.
Pranesh's victory marks a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his position as one of India's most promising chess talents. His ability to outperform Carlsen, even in a rapid format, demonstrates his potential to compete at the highest levels of the game. As Pranesh continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he is undoubtedly a player to watch in the years to come.
