'Just a lucky day': Indian chess prodigy Gukesh remains humble after defeating Magnus while Carlsen loses cool | WATCH

In a stunning twist at Norway Chess, 17-year-old Indian sensation D Gukesh delivered the biggest classical win of his career, defeating Magnus Carlsen on the grandmaster’s home turf. But even more impressive than the upset was Gukesh’s humility in victory and Carlsen’s visibly shaken reaction in defeat. 

Gukesh's humble reaction after beating the former World no.1

On Sunday, May 1, the chess world witnessed a moment of history as Gukesh beat Carlsen in classical time control, turning the tables on the Norwegian superstar after an earlier loss in the opening round. Playing with white pieces, Gukesh endured intense pressure as Carlsen, widely considered one of the greatest players ever, dominated the middle game. But in a dramatic endgame twist, Carlsen under a critical time scramble blundered. Gukesh grabbed the opportunity with ruthless efficiency.

Gukesh:

"99 out of 100 times I would lose. Just a lucky day!"

"First classical win against Magnus, I mean, not the way I wanted it to be, but okay I'll take it."#NorwayChess pic.twitter.com/80Bm8EXhIE

— chess24 (@chess24com) June 1, 2025

Carlsen slams table, storms out after rare classical defeat on home turf

What followed was even more dramatic. Carlsen, clearly rattled, slammed the table with force, startling everyone in the hall. Though he quickly apologized, he stormed out of the venue, reflecting the emotional toll of the unexpected loss. Yet Gukesh remained composed and humble. "99 out of 100 times I would lose. Just a lucky day," he told reporters, praising Carlsen's strength and calling the win a rare opportunity.

OH MY GOD 😳🤯😲 pic.twitter.com/QSbbrvQFkE

— Norway Chess (@NorwayChess) June 1, 2025

His calm reaction drew praise across the chess community, with legendary GM Susan Polgar writing, "He has the heart of a warrior!"

Carlsen’s frustration may have roots in more than just the game. After skipping his world title defense in 2024 and taking a step back from classical formats, this match marked his first major classical appearance since Gukesh became the youngest world champion. In the last encounter of round 1, Carlsen beat Gukesh and put up a sharp message on social media: "You come at the king, you best not miss." But this time, the king missed and the prodigy did not.