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Youngest World Champion Gukesh Outclasses Nakamura in Clutch Chess Showdown
28 Oct
Summary
- 18-year-old Indian GM Gukesh defeats Nakamura 1.5-0.5 in Clutch Chess event
- Gukesh displays composure and maturity, rearranges board after win
- Incident comes weeks after Nakamura's controversial 'king-toss' against Gukesh
On October 29, 2025, 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh emerged victorious over American chess star Hikaru Nakamura at the Clutch Chess Champions Showdown in St. Louis, USA. This was the first meeting between the two players since the viral 'king-toss' controversy that had erupted earlier this month during the Checkmate: USA vs India exhibition event.
Gukesh, the reigning world chess champion, showcased his remarkable composure and maturity as he defeated Nakamura in the rapid format with confident and flawless endgame play. After the match, Gukesh humbly shook hands with his opponent and then proceeded to meticulously rearrange the pieces on the board, a gesture that earned him widespread praise for his sportsmanship and grace.
This stark contrast to Nakamura's earlier behavior, where he had tossed Gukesh's king to the crowd after defeating the Indian prodigy, has not gone unnoticed. Fans have lauded Gukesh for his exemplary conduct, with many hailing him as a 'champion in character' and stating that he had delivered the 'perfect checkmate' to Nakamura through his display of humility.
Following the first day of the Clutch Chess Champions Showdown 2025, D Gukesh currently leads the standings with 4 out of 6 points, ahead of Magnus Carlsen (3.5) and Hikaru Nakamura (3).
