Mon Sep 23 03:51:09 UTC 2024: ## India Makes History, Wins Double Gold at Chess Olympiad

**Budapest, Hungary:** India achieved an unprecedented feat at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, winning gold in both the Open and Women’s categories, a first for the nation. Previously, India had won bronze twice in the Open category (2014 and 2022) and once in the Women’s event (2022).

This victory places India among only three nations, including the former Soviet Union and China, to have achieved this double gold since the Open and Women’s Chess Olympiads were held concurrently in 1972.

The Indian Open team, led by Gukesh D and Arjun Erigaisi, dominated the competition, securing eight consecutive wins before a draw with Uzbekistan. A final round victory against Slovenia secured their maiden gold, with Erigaisi’s win against Jan Subelj proving decisive.

The Women’s team, while encountering a slight stumble in the eighth round against Poland, held their nerve and triumphed in the final two rounds against China and Azerbaijan. Their gold was confirmed after Kazakhstan was held to a draw by the USA.

**Key Contributors:**

* **Gukesh D:** Won eight of ten rounds, showcasing his exceptional form ahead of the upcoming World Chess Championship against Ding Liren.
* **Arjun Erigaisi:** Won nine of eleven rounds, moving into third place on the live chess ratings, surpassing Fabiano Caruana.
* **R Praggnanandhaa:** Despite some draws and a loss, Praggnanandhaa, known for defeating world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, secured a victory in the final round.
* **Divya Deshmukh:** Leading the women’s team with eight wins in eleven rounds, Deshmukh was instrumental in securing the gold.
* **Tania Sachdev:** Making a limited but impactful contribution with two wins and three draws.

The Indian team’s success is a testament to the nation’s growing strength in the chess world and promises exciting prospects for the future.

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