India at Chess Olympiad 2024, Close to Winning Two Gold Medals 

India at Chess Olympiad 2024| India is on the verge of a historic double victory at the 45th Chess Olympiad. Both the Indian men’s and women’s teams are leading their respective categories with one round remaining. The men’s team triumphed over the USA with a 2.5-1.5 score, while the women’s team also defeated China by the same margin.

Key Matches in the Men’s Section

In the open section (men’s category), Grandmaster D Gukesh delivered a crucial victory for India by defeating Fabiano Caruana from the USA. This win gave India the edge after R Praggananandhaa lost to Wesley So. Vidit Gujrathi played a solid game to draw against Levon Aronian, keeping India in the contest. Arjun Erigaisi then secured the final victory by defeating Lenier Dominguez Perez after a five-hour match.

With 19 points, India now leads the open section, followed by China with 17 points and Slovenia with 16 points.

Player	Opponent	Result
D Gukesh	Fabiano Caruana	Win
R Praggananandhaa	Wesley So	Loss
Vidit Gujrathi	Levon Aronian	Draw
Arjun Erigaisi	Lenier Dominguez Perez	Win

Indian Women’s Team Regains Lead

In the women’s section, India returned to the top of the standings after beating China 2.5-1.5. Divya Deshmukh was instrumental, securing a win against Ni Shiqun, while the other games ended in draws. R Vaishali fought hard to defend against Guo Qi and forced a draw. D Harika and Vantika Agarwal also held their respective games to a draw, maintaining India’s lead.

India now faces Azerbaijan in the final round. A victory here could ensure the women’s team their gold medal.

Impact of the Chess Olympiad on Global Chess

The Chess Olympiad is one of the most prestigious events in the chess world. A double victory for India will solidify its position as a chess powerhouse. Gukesh’s impressive win against higher-ranked players is a testament to India’s rising talent in the game. The Olympiad also fosters international cooperation and enhances global interest in chess, especially in regions like Asia where chess is gaining popularity.

Challenges Faced by India at Chess Olympiad 2024

India faced stiff competition throughout the Olympiad. In Round 9, the men’s team drew 2-2 against Uzbekistan, temporarily halting their winning streak. However, key wins in Round 10 against the USA and China allowed both the men’s and women’s teams to regain their momentum.

India at Chess Olympiad 2024- Key Events

• Men’s Team: India beat the USA 2.5-1.5 in Round 10, with Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi leading the way.
• Women’s Team: India overcame China 2.5-1.5, thanks to Divya Deshmukh’s win.
• Next Round: The men’s team will face Slovenia, and the women’s team will compete against Azerbaijan.

Significance: India is aiming for two gold medals, which would be a historic achievement in chess.

Read –India Wins Historic Gold at Chess Olympiad 2024