Mon Sep 23 08:12:14 UTC 2024: ## India Makes History with Double Gold at 45th Chess Olympiad

**Budapest, Hungary** – In a historic moment for Indian chess, the Indian team secured a double gold at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest. The men’s team, led by the sensational performances of D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, clinched their first-ever gold in the prestigious open event, while the women’s team also emerged victorious, marking a remarkable double triumph for the nation.

The men’s team, boasting a formidable lineup that included R Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, and P Harikrishna, dominated the tournament, securing a stunning 21 points out of a possible 22. Gukesh, a 17-year-old rising star, delivered a jaw-dropping performance, scoring 9 out of 10 games with a performance rating of 3056, becoming the only player in the tournament to break the 3000+ mark. Arjun Erigaisi, another young talent, was equally impressive, scoring 10 points in 11 games and securing individual gold on board three.

The women’s team, led by the experienced Harika Dronavalli, also showcased their prowess. They secured gold after a convincing 3.5-0.5 win against Azerbaijan, showcasing the depth and talent within the Indian women’s chess scene. Divya Deshmukh, a new addition to the team, was instrumental in the victory, scoring a remarkable 9.5 points out of 11 games.

The victories, achieved amid the backdrop of the Danube River flooding, serve as a testament to the remarkable progress Indian chess has made in recent years. This triumph follows a series of successes, including the qualification of three Indian players for the Candidates tournament and Praggnanandhaa’s historic win over Magnus Carlsen at the Norway Chess tournament.

The Indian team’s success was attributed to the dedication and focus of each player, as well as the strong team spirit fostered by the captain, Srinath Narayanan. The team’s performance has cemented India’s position as a chess superpower on the global stage.

The double gold victory at the Budapest Olympiad is a momentous occasion for Indian chess, signifying a new era of dominance and a bright future for the sport in the country.

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