'It's a new month, you'll play well': Pragg recalls mother's prediction after Norway Chess title
Stavanger, June 6
After becoming the first Indian to lift the Norway Chess trophy R Praggnanandhaa revealed that his mother's advice just before the latter half of the tournament turned out to be surprisingly prophetic as he managed to pull off one of the biggest comebacks in the tournament history.
"She told ' it is a new month you will play well and I said 'ok it is one of those things that mom says and then I win four games straight, I think mom knows something," said Praggnanandhaa after winning the crown on Friday.
The 20-year-old Grandmaster, who defeated German Vincent Keymer in the final round, became the first Indian champion in the tournament's history.
It was hardly imaginable few days earlier as Praggnanandhaa failed to be consistent in the first half of the six-player tournament despite defeating world No.1 Magnus Carlsen in round 3, he was at the bottom with six points after six rounds.
However, a call from his mother Nagalakshmi before his seventh round match against Alireza Firouzja started a turn around and Praggnanandhaa then went on to win four classical games in a row, including a second victory over Carlsen, before clinching the title against Keymer.
"It all came my way and I also think I started to play more in control, which is always very good.
"I decided that I will play a little faster than I was doing. In every game, I had time advantage and was able to make decent quality moves," said Praggnanandhaa when asked what he thought was the key behind the resurgence.
He also admitted of losing track in the final stages against Keymer.
"A few moves before the end I knew I was going to win. But I also wanted to make sure, I just could not think of anything once I played knight e6; I was just moving with my hand. Because when you get a winning position it is nearly impossible to make a mistake but I was still very concerned. It was only after he resigned that I relaxed."
The victory also marks an unbelievable comeback for the Chennai Grandmaster, who has turned his fortunes from the brink of disappointment to glory in Norway.
"Whenever you win any tournament, you are happy. And to win this tournament when Magnus is playing is really special. And then to win this way, it's more than special. I am just super happy," he stated.
— IANS
Reader Comments
That mother's intuition is unreal! Praggnanandhaa beating Magnus Carlsen twice in one tournament is a massive achievement. He's only 20 and already pushing the boundaries of Indian chess. The way he stayed calm and played faster to gain time advantage shows real maturity.
These mother's blessings are powerful! I remember my Amma saying similar things before my exams. But to see Pragg turn from last to champion is just inspiring. And him being honest about nearly losing control against Keymer shows his humility. Well done, champion! 🌟
What a comeback! First Indian to win Norway Chess, beating the world number one twice. But I was a bit disappointed he didn't mention his coach or team more. His mother's advice is great, but chess is a team effort too. Still, massive congratulations! 🏆
Love the mother-son dynamic here. Pragg's humility in admitting he was just "moving with his hand" near the end is refreshing. In a world of arrogant sports stars, this young man from Chennai shows real character. The future of Indian chess is bright!
This is what happens when Indian parents believe in their children! His mom saying "new month, you'll play well" and boom - four straight wins. The confidence that gives a young player is priceless. Beating Magnus twice in one tournament? That's for the history books.
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