It was the first slam heard ’round the chess world.
Over the weekend, two titans of chess faced off in an electrifying match that captured the attention of fans worldwide. It wasn’t just the result that made waves but also the events that unfolded in the aftermath. Magnus Carlsen, regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, squared off against 19-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju, the current world champion and a rising star in the chess community.
This game was part of the Norway Chess 2025 tournament, a prestigious event that attracts top-level talent. The stakes were high, and the ambiance was palpable as two formidable opponents took their places at the board. What many didn’t expect was the turn of events that would lead to Carlsen’s historic loss in classical format. This match marked the first time Carlsen had been defeated in a long, complex game format by Gukesh.
The momentum of the game shifted dramatically when Carlsen lost a knight, triggering a frantic endgame fraught with tension as both players raced against the clock. With mere seconds remaining on their timers, the pressure intensified. Gukesh managed to capitalize on the blunder, finding himself in a winning position. In a moment of raw emotion, Carlsen expressed his frustration by slamming his fist on the table—an act that many chess players and enthusiasts could relate to after experiencing a misstep in their own games.
Carina Johansen / AP
After the match, Carlsen extended his handshake of resignation, reflecting on the game with the relatable exclamation, “Oh my god,” alongside an apology. This moment resonated with chess fans and casual players alike, who have likely felt similar frustrations during their own matches.
While Gukesh’s victory itself was historic, Carlsen’s emotional reaction added an extra layer of intrigue. It not only showcased Gukesh’s skill but also highlighted Carlsen’s dominance even in defeat. Gukesh expressed disbelief during an interview rendered immediately after the match, recounting how he thought he was in a losing position and had merely been trying to make tricky moves to challenge Carlsen. “99 out of 100 times I would lose,” he remarked, underscoring the unexpected nature of his win.
The chess community quickly rallied around Gukesh, noting that such victories against established players are a strong indicator of a rising talent. Remarkably, Gukesh echoed Carlsen’s frustration, jokingly admitting that he, too, has had his moments of slamming tables. This camaraderie within the chess world adds a unique touch to the competitive atmosphere.
Despite this notable upset, Carlsen retained his title as the top-ranked player according to the International Chess Federation (FIDE). His legacy includes being a five-time world champion, emphasizing his status at the pinnacle of the chess world. In 2022, Carlsen opted not to defend his title, leading to Ding Liren from China claiming the top spot, only to be dethroned by Gukesh in 2024, making Gukesh the youngest world champion in history.
The rivalry between Carlsen and Gukesh is becoming an exciting subplot in chess narratives. Carlsen has openly praised Gukesh, admiring his work ethic and talent. However, he has also commented on the differences between the younger player’s strengths and his own in various time formats, noting that Gukesh is particularly adept in faster-paced games.
As chess experiences a surge in popularity—thanks to online platforms and content creators analyzing real-time matches—moments like this can flourish. Shorter time formats are gaining prominence, opening the door for new strategies and styles of play. While Carlsen remains the face of chess, his unexpected loss to Gukesh has become an iconic event, sparking discussions and compilations of reactions across social media and news platforms.
