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India made history at the 2024 Chess Olympiad, claiming a maiden gold medal in the open section. The victory came after a thrilling final round where the team faced off against Slovenia. India's triumph was solidified by the fact that second-placed China dropped points on two boards against the USA, opening the door for India to secure the top spot.
The success can be attributed to the stellar performance of the Indian team, led by the exceptional contributions of their star players. Newly crowned World No. 3 Arjun Erigaisi kicked off India's winning streak with a crucial victory. This was followed by wins from World Championship challenger D Gukesh and rising star R Praggnanandhaa, ensuring a decisive and memorable finish to their campaign.
India's journey to the gold medal was marked by dominance and resilience. The team started the competition with a remarkable eight consecutive wins, showcasing their unwavering strength and determination. While they were held to a draw by defending champion Uzbekistan, India quickly rebounded, defeating the top-seeded USA in the penultimate round. This decisive win effectively secured the title, making the final round a formality.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for Indian chess. It marks a significant improvement on their performance in the 2022 Olympiad, where they won bronze on home soil. The team also previously won a bronze medal in the 2014 edition. The gold medal in the 2024 Olympiad is a testament to the dedication, skill, and perseverance of the Indian chess players, and it is a moment of immense pride for the nation.
Source: Chess Olympiad 2024: India clinches maiden gold in open section, beats Slovenia in final round