India, Jan. 23 -- D Gukesh faced a challenging match, yet the reigning world chess champion emerged victorious in a tense 72-move confrontation against Vincent Keymer on Wednesday. This encounter marked the longest game of Round 5 in the Master's section of the ongoing Tata Steel Chess tournament in Wijk aan Zee. With this victory, Gukesh ascended to the position of India’s No. 1 player, surpassing Arjun Erigaisi in the live ratings, which are updated in real-time.

It is noteworthy that Keymer was part of Gukesh's team during the World Chess Championship held in Singapore last December. On Wednesday, Gukesh donned a grey hoodie and played with the white pieces. Although he made some initial mistakes that allowed the German player to gain early control, Gukesh's strategic insight ultimately outmanoeuvred Keymer's attempts to exhaust him, leading to Keymer's resignation.

D Gukesh has increased his Elo rating by seven points, bringing his live rating to 2784, while Erigaisi, who previously held the title of India’s No. 1, has seen a decline of 21.5 points, now sitting at 2779. Prior to this tournament, Erigaisi was part of the 2800 club but has struggled recently, suffering three losses and two draws in Wijk aan Zee, placing him at the joint-bottom alongside Leon Luke Mendonca.

In contrast, Gukesh remains unbeaten in the tournament, with two victories and three draws. He drew against Vladimir Fedoseev and Alexey Sarana while securing wins against Anish Giri and Vincent Keymer.

The live ratings are subject to change, and should Erigaisi stage a comeback, he may reclaim his position from Gukesh. There are still eight more Swiss rounds to play, along with potential playoffs.

Although not competing in the tournament, Magnus Carlsen continues to lead the live ratings with a score of 2832.5, followed by American Grandmasters Hikaru Nakamura (2802) and Fabiano Caruana (2798) in second and third place, respectively. Gukesh now occupies the fourth position, while Erigaisi is fifth. Additionally, R Praggnanandhaa (2753.9) has advanced three spots to rank 10th, with Viswanathan Anand (2750) in 11th place.

Read Also: Revolutionizing Coaching: New TOPS-inspired Scheme by India's Sports Ministry

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!