R. Praggnanandhaa Surpasses Viswanathan Anand to Become India’s No. 1 Chess Player.

Sports | Dated: 16 Jan 2026

Young Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa has officially surpassed the legendary Viswanathan Anand to become India's number one ranked chess player in the FIDE ratings. He achieved this feat after defeating World Champion Ding Liren at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • Praggnanandhaa is the second Indian after Anand to defeat a reigning World Champion in classical chess.
  • Viswanathan Anand had held the top spot for over three decades.
  • Praggnanandhaa is now ranked among the top 10 players globally.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • Player: R. Praggnanandhaa.
  • Achievement: India No. 1.
  • Sport: Chess.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Who recently surpassed Viswanathan Anand to become India's top-ranked chess player?

Correct Answer: R. Praggnanandhaa

🚀 Quick Recap:

About FIDE

  • HQ – Lausanne, Switzerland
  • President – Arkady Dvorkovich