Praggnanandhaa Powers Past Keymer to Reach Grand Chess Tour Final

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has advanced to the final of the Grand Chess Tour’s concluding leg after delivering a dominant 19-9 performance against Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the semifinal. The result secures the Indian’s place against defending champion and pre-event favourite Fabiano Caruana of the United States in the event finale.

Semifinal Rout Over Keymer

Praggnanandhaa entered the final day of his semifinal with a six-point cushion, built on a victory in the second Classical game. The Indian then swept consecutive rapid encounters to push his lead to 17-3, effectively sealing his spot in the final. A win in the first blitz game of the day extended his tally to 19 points. Although rules required all games to be played, Keymer rallied to take the final three blitz games, trimming the score but not the outcome.

Caruana Advances in Style

On the other side of the draw, Caruana booked his place in the final with an 18-9 win of his own. Though not traditionally known for his prowess in faster time controls, the American silenced any doubts with a composed display, particularly in the blitz segment, leaving no room for uncertainty.

Final Details and Stakes

The Grand Chess Tour Final carries a total prize fund of USD 450,000, with the winner set to take home USD 200,000 and the losing finalist earning USD 125,000. The third-place match will feature Keymer against another American, Wesley So.

Looking Ahead

Despite Caruana entering as the favourite, Praggnanandhaa’s emphatic form suggests the final could produce a tightly contested battle. Notably, the top three finishers at this event will earn direct invitations to next year’s Grand Chess Tour, adding further significance to the standings.

Highlight Results

• Praggnanandhaa def. Vincent Keymer 19-9 (semifinal)
• Fabiano Caruana def. opponent 18-9 (semifinal)
• Praggnanandhaa leads 17-3 after rapid phase; sealed with first blitz win
• Keymer won the final three blitz games for pride
• Third-place match: Keymer vs Wesley So

Prize Fund

• Total prize pool: USD 450,000
• Winner: USD 200,000
• Losing finalist: USD 125,000

Source

This report is based on information published by The Bridge — Chess.

Official source: https://thebridge.in/chess/praggnanandhaa-reach-gct-final-57367