Arjun Erigaisi Makes History: Second Indian to Cross 2800 Elo in Chess!

In a stunning accomplishment, 21-year-old Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi became the second Indian to ever acquire the coveted 2800 Elo rating in classical chess. He is now a member of this select group, joining the likes of Viswanathan Anand. Additionally, Erigaisi is presently ranked fourth in the world.

Erigaisi's amazing performance at the Chess Olympiad has been the high point of his extraordinary year. He helped India achieve a historic victory by winning gold medals as an individual and as a team.

Arjun Erigaisi Makes History

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on 'X' that Arjun Erigaisi has made history as the 16th player to cross the 2800 Elo mark in classical chess ratings.

He joins five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand as only the second Indian to achieve this milestone. In the December 2024 FIDE Rating list, Erigaisi’s rating is 2801, placing him 4th in the world rankings.

FIDE also praised Erigaisi’s outstanding performance at the 45th Chess Olympiad, where he played a crucial role in India's success.

Earlier this year, 21-year-old Arjun Erigaisi had a remarkable run at the 45th Chess Olympiad, where he won both team and individual gold medals.

Arjun Erigaisi Golden Boy of Chess

Hailing from Warangal, Telangana, Erigaisi became a Grandmaster at the young age of 14 years, 11 months, and 13 days. In September 2024, he further cemented his place in Indian chess history by becoming the country’s top-rated player.

With a current Elo rating of 2801, Erigaisi ranks just behind the USA’s Hikaru Nakamura (2802). Norway’s Magnus Carlsen remains at the top with 2831, followed by Fabiano Caruana of the USA at 2805.

D Gukesh Fight For World Title

Another Indian chess star, 18-year-old D Gukesh, is competing for the World Championship title against Ding Liren of China in Singapore. Gukesh ranked 5th globally with a rating of 2783, is just one spot below Erigaisi. Meanwhile, Ding Liren is ranked 22nd with a rating of 2728.