VIDEO: Chess Grandmaster Carlsen defeated by teenage champion

In a dramatic twist at the 2025 Norway Chess tournament, Indian prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju handed Magnus Carlsen a stunning 3-0 defeat, prompting a rare emotional outburst from the Norwegian grandmaster.

The 19-year-old defending classical world champion capitalized on an uncharacteristic error by Carlsen during their Sunday match at Finansparken in Stavanger. The win marked Gukesh's first classical victory over the five-time world champion — a milestone that left chess fans around the world buzzing.

As the final move forced Carlsen into resignation, the 34-year-old slammed his fist on the table in visible frustration before hastily shaking Gukesh’s hand and exiting the venue. He declined to speak with the press, skipping his usual post-match media appearance.

The display of emotion surprised many, including commentators who are used to Carlsen's composed demeanor.

In a post-game interview, Carlsen admitted he was baffled by Gukesh’s unorthodox approach, “I don’t completely understand what (Gukesh’s) concept is here. It seems to me that I just have excellent play,” he said.

Gukesh, who made history in 2024 as the youngest-ever classical world champion, downplayed the win with characteristic humility. “99 out of 100 times, I would lose. Just a lucky day!” He added, “First classical win against Magnus, I mean, not the way I wanted it to be, but OK, I’ll take it.”

British grandmaster David Howell hailed the match as a turning point in the tournament, calling it the “turnaround of the year.” Reflecting on the final moments, Howell posted on X, “Focus. Brilliance. Raw passion, anger, shock. Elation. Sportsmanship. This moment had it all.”

Focus. Brilliance. Raw passion, anger, shock. Elation. Sportsmanship. This moment had it all. https://t.co/Bwfp9XiPv7

— David Howell (@DavidHowellGM) June 1, 2025

Despite the upset, Carlsen remains at the top of the leaderboard with four rounds left to play. Gukesh, meanwhile, has climbed to third place in the standings as the tournament heats up.

The 2025 edition of Norway Chess boasts a total prize fund of around USD 148,000, with the winner set to receive nearly USD 62,000.