A few anxious steps. Clasped hands. Eyes locked on the board. Seconds before becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title, R Praggnanandhaa could barely stand still.
A viral video shared by the official Norway Chess account has captured the dramatic final moments before the 20-year-old grandmaster from Chennai secured the biggest title of his career. As Germany's Vincent Keymer contemplated a lost position in their final-round clash, Praggnanandhaa paced nervously around the playing area, waiting for the moment that would change his career forever.
When Keymer finally resigned, the tension disappeared instantly. India had a new Norway Chess champion.
A Bollywood-style ending to a historic week
The scene looked like something straight out of a thriller.
With the championship hanging in the balance, Praggnanandhaa walked back and forth near the board, unable to hide his nerves. The young grandmaster, usually known for his calm demeanour during games, appeared visibly anxious as he waited for confirmation of victory.
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