Indian GM Pranesh M clinches Kanizsa Open 2026 title in Hungary

NAGYKANIZSA (Hungary): India’s 19-year-old Grandmaster Pranesh M emerged triumphant at the prestigious Kanizsa Open 2026 in Nagykanizsa, Hungary, clinching the Group A title with an impressive performance on Sunday.

In the ninth and final round, Pranesh defeated Germany’s Vadim Petrovskiy with the white pieces to seal the championship. Rated 2673, Pranesh is currently ranked 44th in the latest FIDE World Rankings for August 2026. The Indian Embassy in Hungary congratulated 19-year-old Grandmaster Pranesh M on his victory at the Kanizsa Open 2026 in Nagykanizsa.

It praised his impressive performance in one of Central Europe’s competitive open tournaments and highlighted the growing success of Indian chess players in Hungary. “Meet the new Indian Chess Champion!! Pranesh M. Huge Congratulations! to Indian Grandmaster Pranesh M on his brilliant victory at the prestigious Kanizsa Open 2026 in Nagykanizsa, Hungary!” The Indian Embassy wrote in an X post.

Meet the new Indian Chess Champion!! Pranesh M.

Huge Congratulations! to Indian Grandmaster Pranesh M on his brilliant victory at the prestigious Kanizsa Open 2026 in Nagykanizsa, Hungary!

​After a thrilling 9th round, Pranesh secured the top spot in one of Central… pic.twitter.com/qHDY74ucDR

— India in Hungary (@IndiaInHungary) August 23, 2026

“After a thrilling 9th round, Pranesh secured the top spot in one of Central Europe’s most competitive open tournaments. We are incredibly proud to see Indian talent shining so brightly on the global stage. Hungary continues to be a happy hunting ground for Indian Chess. Wishing him continued success in his chess journey,” the post further added.

Pranesh, who hails from Karaikudi in Tamil Nadu, finished the tournament with seven points from nine rounds, sharing the top spot with three other players. (ANI)