Carlsen initially struggled in the Zagreb event, losing two consecutive games to Gukesh, who was performing strongly. However, a format change led to Carlsen's resurgence as he went on an impressive unbeaten streak, ultimately dominating the tournament and clinching another victory. His style adapted to oppose the young champion, and despite early setbacks, Carlsen's consistent performances throughout various tournaments in 2025 facilitated his remarkable success, earning him significant prize money and reinvigorating his reputation as a leading player in chess.
It looked as if the Carlsen era might finally be over. The Norwegian, 35, had just lost his second game in a row to India's world champion, Gukesh Dommaraju, 19, who was on a streak of five successive wins and leading the Zagreb event three points ahead of Carlsen.
Carlsen reverted to the style of Grind Like a Grandmaster, co-authored with England's David Howell. At the end of the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz, Carlsen banked another $40,000 winner's cheque, his fourth in six starts in Croatia.
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