Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa reveals why chess titans like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura shift from classical chess to faster formats. The grueling demands of classical chess drain players mentally and physically. Praggnanandhaa, a rising star at 19, explains the toll of extensive preparation and the allure of freestyle, rapid, and blitz formats.
Exhausting Prep Drives Players Away from Classical Chess
Classical chess demands hours of opening preparation, which Praggnanandhaa says players rarely enjoy. “It’s difficult to play classical chess because everyone is well prepared,” he notes. “You’re forced to plan for everything.” This intense process exhausts players, especially after years of high-level competition. Carlsen, a five-time world champion, and Nakamura, world No. 2, now prioritize shorter formats to avoid burnout. Praggnanandhaa, despite winning the Tata Steel Masters, Superbet Classic, and Uz Chess Cup in 2025, admits the strain. “When you play a lot of such tournaments, your energy drains,” he says. Faster formats like rapid and blitz require less prep, offering a refreshing alternative.
Freestyle and Rapid Chess Spark Joy
Praggnanandhaa prefers freestyle and rapid chess for their spontaneity. “I like freestyle much more because you don’t have to prepare before a game,” he explains. These formats let players focus on creativity rather than rote memorization. Carlsen, who has dominated freestyle events, echoes this sentiment, stating in a 2024 interview with Chess.com, “Freestyle feels like pure chess.” Nakamura, a blitz maestro, thrives in high-speed settings, leveraging his quick thinking. Data from FIDE shows rapid and blitz tournaments grew 20% in participation from 2023 to 2025, reflecting the shift. Yet, Praggnanandhaa insists classical chess remains “the main thing” for its depth and prestige.
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Adani’s Support Fuels Praggnanandhaa’s Rise
Praggnanandhaa credits Adani Sportsline for his success. “They’ve supported me for one-and-a-half years,” he says. “Training and travel are expensive.” Adani’s backing enabled his preparation for the 2024 Candidates Tournament, including in-person camps and team support. Even during a tough 2024, their commitment never wavered. This support underscores the importance of sponsorship in chess, where costs for coaching, travel, and technology like chess engines can exceed $50,000 annually. Praggnanandhaa’s insights reveal why classical chess loses its shine for top players, while sponsorships keep talents like him thriving.
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