CNN
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Magnus Carlsen hit the table in frustration after shocking Shockross in defending world classic chess champion Gukeshdmaraj at the 2025 Norwegian Chest Tournament on Sunday.
The 19-year-old Gukesch sealed a 3-0 victory with a rare mistake from Carlsen at Finansparken in Stavanger, Norway, securing his first classic victory over five-time world champions.
When Carlsen was forced to admit, the 34-year-old slammed his hands on the table with a burst of surprise emotion before waving Gukesh’s hand and leaving the venue immediately, skipping media duties.
The explosion caused an unstable response from Carlsen and the commentators, usually known for his gentle attitude.
Carlsen later admitted that he was confused by the tactics of his Indian enemy.
“I don’t fully understand that (Gukesh’s) concept is here. I just seem to be playing great,” Carlsen said.
For Gukesh, who became the youngest world chess champion in history last year, it was a key victory and something he never thought he would come.
“99 out of 100, I’ll lose. Just a lucky day!” Gukesh said afterwards.
“My first classic victory over Magnus, not the way I wanted, but I get it, I’ll take it.”
British grandmaster David Howell called Gukesh’s victory “the turnaround of the year” given the nature of the comeback.
He also praised the end of the game. “Focus. Shine. Raw passion, anger, shock.
Highly elated. Sportsmanship. It was all there in this moment,” Howell wrote to X.
Carlsen is still above Norwegian chess ranking despite the four-round game remaining.
The tournament will have a total prize of around $148,000, with winners taking home almost $62,000.
