PM Modi congratulates Arjun Erigaisi after historic bronze medal win at FIDE World Rapid Championship

India’s young chess star Arjun Erigaisi created history by winning a bronze medal at the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship held in Doha, Qatar. After his impressive performance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on social media and praised his determination and hard work. The achievement marks a proud moment for Indian chess and adds another milestone to the country’s growing success in the sport.

At just 22 years of age, Arjun showed remarkable skill and calm under pressure while competing against some of the world’s strongest chess players. His podium finish in the open section of the World Rapid Championship is especially significant because it makes him the first Indian male player to win a medal at the event since legendary grandmaster Viswanathan Anand.

PM Modi praises Arjun’s achievement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to the social media platform X to congratulate Arjun Erigaisi for his bronze medal win. In his message, the Prime Minister expressed pride in Arjun’s performance and highlighted his grit and determination.

PM Modi wrote that he was proud of Arjun for winning the bronze medal in the open section of the World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha. He also wished the young grandmaster success in his future career and encouraged him to keep performing at the highest level.

The Prime Minister’s message was widely shared and appreciated by chess fans and sports lovers across the country. Many saw it as a sign of growing recognition for chess in India, especially for young players who are performing well on the global stage.

Arjun’s achievement has been welcomed by the Indian chess community, with several players, coaches, and fans praising his focus and maturity. His success is seen as an inspiration for young chess players in India who dream of competing at international tournaments.

Historic performance at the world championship

Arjun Erigaisi’s bronze medal finish is being described as a historic moment because no Indian male player had reached the podium at the World Rapid Championship since Viswanathan Anand, who is a five-time world chess champion. Anand’s achievements laid the foundation for modern Indian chess, and Arjun’s success shows how the next generation is carrying that legacy forward.

In the women’s section of the championship, Koneru Humpy also won a bronze medal, adding to India’s overall success at the event. Other Indian women players also performed strongly. Savitha Shri B finished fourth, Vaishali Rameshbabu ended the tournament in fifth place, and Divya Deshmukh secured eighth position. Their performances further highlighted India’s strong presence in world chess.

Apart from the medal, Arjun’s third-place finish earned him an important opportunity. He qualified for the pilot tournament of the Total Chess World Championship Tour, which is scheduled to begin in October 2026. This is a major step forward in his career and will give him a chance to compete regularly against top international players.

The World Rapid Championship title was won by Magnus Carlsen, one of the greatest chess players of all time. Carlsen dominated the tournament and secured the gold medal with a full point lead over his rivals. On the final day, he defeated Hans Niemann in a rapid game to confirm his victory.

With the World Rapid Championship now over, attention has shifted to the World Blitz Championship, which is also being held in Doha and is set to begin on December 29. Many of the same players, including Arjun Erigaisi, are expected to compete in the blitz event as well.

Arjun’s bronze medal at the World Rapid Championship is being seen as a turning point in his career. His calm approach, sharp calculation, and ability to handle pressure have earned him praise from experts. As Indian chess continues to grow, performances like this strengthen the country’s reputation as a global chess powerhouse.

Fans across India are hopeful that Arjun will continue to deliver strong results in upcoming tournaments and follow in the footsteps of legends like Viswanathan Anand. For now, his achievement stands as a proud moment for Indian sports and a reminder of the country’s rising talent in international chess.