 "Magnus Carlsen slammed table in frustration after losing to D Gukesh. Images: Norway Chess")
India’s young chess star Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has defended former world champion Magnus Carlsen’s viral table-slamming reaction during the Norway Chess 2025 tournament. The dramatic moment happened after Dommaraju Gukesh defeated the current World No. 1 for the first time in classical chess.
The match between Gukesh and Carlsen was a big highlight of Round 6 at Norway Chess. In their first meeting earlier in the tournament, Carlsen had defeated Gukesh. But this time, it was the current world champion who turned things around. Although Carlsen was in a better position, he made a big mistake towards the end that allowed Gukesh to grab victory.
After losing the clash, Carlsen slammed the table in frustration. The clip went viral on social media and sparked many memes. Some fans even criticised the reaction, calling it unsportsmanlike. Praggnanandhaa, who is now India’s new No. 1 player, defended Carlsen’s reaction.
Pragg defends Carlsen’s viral reaction
During an interview with PTI, Praggnanandhaa said that Carlsen’s reaction was instinctive and happens to every player. Pragg added that even he and Gukesh have sometimes shown similar outbursts after losing a game.
“Yes, it was an instinctive reaction. I think it does happen to players. I’ve done it sometimes, but rarely. I mean, it’s (me hitting the table) not as powerful as Magnus because he’s a strong guy, but Gukesh has done it and many others. It’s just an instinctive reaction because you’re so focused that it just comes out," Pragg said.
On the work front, Praggnanandhaa recently won his third title of the year at the UzChess Cup Masters 2025 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This after he won the Tata Steel Chess tournament in Netherlands in February as well as Superbet Chess Classic Romania last month.
Praggnanandhaa has joined Team Liquid ahead of the Esports World Cup 2025. His team includes some big names, including Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana. Praggnanandhaa will play the Last Chance Qualifiers to try and qualify for the EWC, which is slated to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 7 July to 24 August.