New Delhi [India], September 22 (ANI): The illustrious Chess Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand celebrated Team India’s monumental achievement in the Chess Olympiad, where they clinched gold medals in both the men’s and women’s categories. This remarkable feat was accomplished at the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, reflecting India’s growing prowess on the global chess stage.

On Sunday, Anand took to his official X handle to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the Indian women’s team. He particularly lauded the exceptional performances of Vantika Agrawal and Divya Deshmukh in the decisive final round.

“Congrats to India’s Women’s team. Great result by the whole team and captain @chessgmkunte. Special mention to @DivyaDeshmukh05 and @vantikachess for their performances,” Anand wrote on X.

https://x.com/vishy64theking/status/1837858218506440821

Turning his attention to the men’s team, Anand praised their outstanding victory in the final round, which secured their gold medal triumph.

“Congrats to Team India for winning the last round as well! Sensational performances by @DGukesh and @ArjunErigaisi. Also, congrats to @viditchess on an impressive result. Great captaincy by @srinathchess,” he added.

https://x.com/vishy64theking/status/1837850873659379785

Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries, H.D. Kumaraswamy, also lauded Team India’s historic double gold win at the Chess Olympiad.

“A truly historic day for India! Double GOLD at the Chess Olympiad as India conquers both the Open & Women’s sections! Open Team: Gukesh D, Praggnanandhaa R, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Pentala Harikrishna & Srinath Narayanan. Women’s Team: Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali R, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, Tania Sachdev & Abhijit Kunte. Your brilliance, grit, and teamwork have etched India’s name in chess history. A remarkable feat that symbolizes the rise of Indian chess on the global stage, inspiring millions and igniting hope for the future,” Kumaraswamy wrote on X.

https://x.com/hd_kumaraswamy/status/1837882783068574070

In a thrilling final round, India’s men team comprising D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and Pentala Harikrishna outplayed Slovenia to secure the gold medal. Key victories from D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi propelled India to a commanding 2-0 lead. Praggnanandhaa’s win and Vidit’s draw further solidified their dominance, resulting in a 3.5-0.5 victory over Slovenia.

Meanwhile, the Indian women’s chess team—featuring Harika Dronavalli, R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev—secured gold by defeating Azerbaijan with a score of 3.5-0.5. In the final round, Harika Dronavalli, Divya Deshmukh, and Vantika Agrawal emerged victorious in their matches, while R Vaishali drew her game against Ulviyya Fataliyeva.

These stellar performances by both teams highlight India’s exceptional talent and determination in chess, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s sporting achievements.