The Tata Steel Chess India 2024 concluded in Kolkata on Sunday, leaving behind quite a few thrilling matches, as well as unexpected moments and outstanding performances. Each game held its own share of drama, reflecting the high level of competition and the immense talent on display.
However, one of the most heartwarming moments came from the young chess prodigy, Anish Sarkar. The three-year-old has become the toast of the town and captured the hearts of the audience with his enthusiasm and quick moves.
In a playful gesture, he even made a move for Vidit Gujrathi during one of the games.
🇮🇳 IM Divya Deshmukh says SORRY to the clock! @tschessindiapic.twitter.com/aTxGwtDUvf
— Chess.com – India (@chesscom_in) November 17, 2024
Divya Deshmukh’s Apology to the Clock
IM Divya Deshmukh inadvertently knocked over the chess clock during one of her games. Instead of brushing it off, the talented youngster paused to say “sorry” to the clock, a gesture that went viral on social media.
🇮🇳 IM Divya Deshmukh says SORRY to the clock! @tschessindiapic.twitter.com/aTxGwtDUvf
— Chess.com – India (@chesscom_in) November 17, 2024
Magnus Carlsen’s Unstoppable Run
Amidst the lighter moments, the chessboard action remained electrifying, with five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen reaffirming his dominance. The Norwegian maestro clinched the blitz title on Sunday with a round to spare at Kolkata’s Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium.
The final moments as @MagnusCarlsen beats Arjun Erigaisi to win the #TataSteelChessIndia Blitz with a round to spare! https://t.co/ZcoJRk2Hicpic.twitter.com/E1RuH9DT5Y
— chess24 (@chess24com) November 17, 2024
"It was a really, really nervy day. I was lucky that Wesley was the one who went on a big streak because he couldn’t realistically catch me," said Carslen after the win.
"Overall the tournament win is good, the score is not great but very decent, so I’m happy," he added.
"I’m going to Singapore in a few hours and doing a bit of promotion for Freestyle Chess there, playing a match with Fabi in a few days as well. That should be fun, and being a tourist at least for a couple of days at the World Championship will be fun," he concluded.