Praggnanandhaa, Keymer produce a masterclass in Bucharest
R Praggnanandhaa has fond memories of playing chess in Bucharest. The Romanian capital has witnessed the Chennai Grandmaster dominate its marquee annual classical event ever since he first made his presence felt. Having played the Super Chess Classic Romania twice before – – in 2024 and 2025 – – Praggnanandhaa is yet to lose a single game. He finished on top in both editions: a four-way tie for first place in 2024, followed by a three-way tie in 2025. While it’s still too early for a judgment, the second-highest-ranked Indian in the live ratings looks already on course for a three-peat. After the third round late on Saturday, Praggnanandhaa remains in the leading pack. With 2.0 points from three rounds, he finds himself in a five-way battle for the top spot alongside Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Anish Giri, Jorden van Foreest, and Vincent Keymer. Praggnanandhaa played with all his might, trying to squeeze out a win against Keymer in a long-drawn battle, but the German No. 1 came up with the best defences to neutralise all the …
