Rising Star Aravindh Chithambaram Emerges Victorious in Prague Chess Masters

New Delhi, India — Aravindh Chithambaram has made headlines after winning the Prague Chess Masters on March 7, 2025, solidifying his status as one of the top contenders in the chess world. Climbing from outside the top 100 to 14th in live ratings, Chithambaram’s journey has been remarkable, especially as he emerged unbeaten in a competitive field that included notable players like Vincent Keymer and Anish Giri.

Chithambaram, a chess prodigy from Madurai, began his career primarily as a mentor and sparring partner to younger players, including his good friend R Praggnanandhaa. With a rating previously languishing around 2600 at the start of 2024, his breakthrough came amidst a wave of self-discovery, propelling him into the spotlight.

Raised by a single mother after losing his father at a young age, Chithambaram found his passion for chess through an unexpected nudge from his grandfather, despite his initial love for cricket. “I grew to appreciate chess and how it is all about strategy and foresight,” he remarked.

His recent victory at the Prague Masters marks a crucial milestone in his career, as he continues to build on his national titles from previous years. Chess coach GM R.B. Ramesh has played a critical role in Chithambaram’s development, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and confidence in his performance. “He’s feeling more certain about himself,” Ramesh noted. “When you feel calm inside, things work out better for you.”

Chithambaram’s transformation is evident, especially in his attitude towards the game. After defeating high-ranked players including Praggnanandhaa during the tournament, he reflected on his progress, saying, “I don’t know what is happening with my life.”

In a noteworthy fifth round match against Praggnanandhaa, who had just received an award for the best game in the previous round, Chithambaram showcased his competitive spirit. The two friends, tied at that point in the tournament, faced off in a match that ended in a hard-fought draw, demonstrating their skill and mutual respect.

As he continues to navigate this pivotal moment in his chess career, Chithambaram’s journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring chess players. In the words of the second World Chess Champion, Emanuel Lasker, “Chess is, above all, a fight.” Chithambaram’s evolution into a fierce competitor proves that he is more than ready for this fight, as he aims for greater heights in the chess world.