In a remarkable achievement, 18-year-old Indian GM Pranav Venkatesh won the World Junior Chess Championship (Under-20) in Petrovac, Montenegro, on March 7, 2025. He remained unbeaten, securing seven wins and four draws. A final-round draw against Slovenia’s Matic Levrencic sealed his victory with nine points.
A Rising Star in Indian Chess
Pranav’s journey to be the new world junior chess champion has been marked by consistent excellence. He became India’s 75th Grandmaster in 2022, achieving his final norm by winning the Limpedea Open in Baia Mare, Romania. His rapid ascent in the chess world includes notable victories, such as defeating world number one Magnus Carlsen in an online tournament in 2023.
Mentorship Under Viswanathan Anand
Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, the first Indian to win the World Junior title in 1987, has been mentoring Pranav through the Westbridge Anand Chess Academy. Anand expressed his pride, stating, “First Gukesh and now Pranav Venkatesh: Anand lauds World Junior Champ as 2nd student makes history in less than 3 months.”
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Continuing India’s Legacy
Pranav’s victory adds to India’s rich history in the World Junior Chess Championship. He follows in the footsteps of previous Indian champions: Viswanathan Anand (1987), Pentala Harikrishna (2004), and Abhijeet Gupta (2008). His triumph brings the open title back to India after nearly 17 years.
A Promising Future Ahead
Pranav Venkatesh has solidified his place in international chess. He won double gold at the World Youth Under-18 Rapid and Blitz Championships. His dedication and strategic skills promise a bright future for Indian chess.
The prodigy’s journey from a young enthusiast to a world champion inspires players worldwide. His achievements reflect his commitment and India’s growing prominence in global chess.
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