Chess Olympiad 2024: India secures historic gold medal in Open Section

India's task was made even more favorable when China unexpectedly stumbled against the USA, resulting in them dropping crucial points on two boards.

Edited By: Satyam Singh

Last Updated : 22 September 2024, 07:45 PM IST

India conquers the 45th Chess Olympiad. (X/KTRBRS)

Chess Olympiad 2024: India's chess team has clinched their first-ever gold medal in the open section of the Chess Olympiad 2024, held on Sunday, September 22. This victory marks a big milestone in Indian chess history of the natiom.

Flawless performance in round 11

The Indian team delivered a stellar performance during Round 11 of the tournament, where they faced off against Slovenia. Their task was made even more favorable when China unexpectedly stumbled against the USA, resulting in them dropping crucial points on two boards. This turn of events allowed India to capitalize on the opportunity and secure their victory.

HISTORIC - INDIAN TEAMS WINS TWO GOLD 🤯

Open Section - Gold Medal 🏅
Women's Section - Gold Medal 🏅

INDIA TEAM PLAYED EXCEPTIONALLY WELL🇮🇳♥️ pic.twitter.com/gPEAQKGcD7
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) September 22, 2024

Key victories from Indian players

In this decisive match, Indian players displayed exceptional skill and strategy. D. Gukesh led the charge by defeating Slovenia’s Vladimir Fedoseev, while Arjun Erigaisi added another victory against Jan Subelj. R. Praggnanandhaa sealed the deal for India with a vital win over Anton Demchenko. The final tally for the match was a commanding 3-0 in favor of India, confirming their gold medal triumph.

D. Gukesh vs Vladimir Fedoseev: IND 1 - 0 SLV
R. Praggnanandhaa vs Anton Demchenko: IND 2 - 0 SLV
Arjun Erigaisi vs Jan Subelj: IND 3 - 0 SLV

HISTORY created 🔥🔥🔥

Double Chess Olympiad GOLD medals for India (in both Open & Women sections).

Women Squad: Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, Tania Sachdev and Abhijit Kunte (Captain).

Open Squad: Gukesh D, Praggnanandhaa R, Arjun… pic.twitter.com/8cHydCnFk7
— India_AllSports (@India_AllSports) September 22, 2024

Spectacular journey to gold

The path to this gold medal has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Indian team embarked on their campaign with a remarkable streak, achieving eight consecutive victories that highlighted their dominance throughout the tournament. Although they faced a minor setback when they were held to a draw by the defending champions, Uzbekistan, their determination remained unshaken.

The pivotal moment came when they triumphed over the top-seeded USA in the penultimate round on Saturday. This victory not only bolstered their confidence but also positioned them favorably for the championship title. The subsequent win against Slovenia sealed their victory in spectacular fashion.

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Chess Olympiad 2024: India secures historic gold medal in Open Section