India's First-Ever Double Gold In Chess Olympiad, PM Modi Calls It 'Historic Win'

India’s men’s and women’s chess teams both clinched gold at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Budapest on Sunday (22 September). Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a 'historic win.'

"India has won the Gold in both open and women’s category at Chess Olympiad! Congratulations to our incredible Men's and Women's Chess Teams," Modi posted on X.

"This remarkable achievement marks a new chapter in India's sports trajectory. May this success inspire generations of chess enthusiasts to excel in the game," he added.

The Indian men’s team, seeded second, secured the title even before the tournament concluded. Key victories by D. Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi in the final round against Slovenia ensured that India would at least draw the match.

Then R Praggnanandhaa also won the match, while Vidit Gujrathi’s game ended with a draw. The team also included P Harikrishna, who played as the reserve.

This victory marks India’s first-ever gold medal in the Chess Olympiad. India’s closest competitor, China, was unable to close the gap, solidifying India’s historic win. Just two years ago, India’s second team had claimed bronze at the Olympiad in Mamallapuram, near Chennai.

On the women’s side, India also claimed gold, with D Harika, Divya Deshmukh, and Vantika Agrawal securing decisive wins in their final round against Azerbaijan, while R Vaishali drew her match.

The team triumphed with a score of 3.5-0.5. This victory is an upgrade from the bronze medal they earned in the previous edition of the Olympiad.