New Delhi: In a dramatic round seven clash at the prestigious Norway Chess tournament, reigning World Champion D Gukesh pulled off a sensational comeback to secure his first-ever classical win over fellow Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi.

The victory, hailed as one of Gukesh’s most remarkable, came from a position many had deemed lost. Just a day earlier, the 19-year-old had made headlines by defeating World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in classical chess for the first time — a feat that, combined with his latest triumph, has propelled him ahead of Carlsen in the tournament standings. Gukesh now sits in second place behind Fabiano Caruana, who overcame Wei Yi in his own match.

The much-anticipated face-off between India’s top young talents delivered on every expectation. Arjun Erigaisi seized the early initiative, navigating into a sharp and dynamic middlegame where he appeared to be in full control. Gukesh, under immense pressure, made a critical error that left him both down in material and in a significantly worse position.

Despite the grim outlook, Gukesh showcased the fighting spirit that has defined his meteoric rise. With razor-sharp calculation and unflinching calm, he defended stubbornly and slowly turned the tables. As the clock ticked down and tension mounted, Arjun made a few imprecise moves, allowing Gukesh back into the game.

The World Champion seized the opportunity with clinical precision, wresting control of the board and ultimately forcing Arjun to resign after a gripping endgame.