In Zagreb, reigning world champion D Gukesh achieved another stunning victory against world number one Magnus Carlsen during the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025. This win marked Gukesh's fifth consecutive triumph on Thursday. Unlike previous encounters, Carlsen did not display any visible frustration, despite having blundered from a winning position once more. By the end of the second day, Gukesh stood as the sole leader with 10 points, while Carlsen lagged behind with six points. Gukesh holds a two-point lead over Jan-Krzysztof Duda, his nearest competitor, as they approach the final games.

After the match, Carlsen expressed his difficulties in finding enjoyment in chess. He has previously referred to Gukesh as a 'weak player' on multiple occasions.

Last month, Gukesh stunned the chess world by defeating Carlsen in Round 6 of the Norway Chess tournament, maintaining his impressive form. In that match, Carlsen played with the white pieces while Gukesh took control with black. Initially, Carlsen dominated the game, attempting to create openings against the young Indian grandmaster. However, the tide turned when Carlsen made a critical mistake by pushing his b pawn to b4, allowing Gukesh to seize control. With less than 30 seconds remaining on his clock, Carlsen recognized the inevitable outcome and chose to resign, shaking Gukesh's hand without much emotion or eye contact.

Former world champion Garry Kasparov, who provided commentary for the official stream, remarked, 'Now we can question Magnus' dominance because this is not just his second loss to Gukesh; it's a convincing loss.' Kasparov criticized Carlsen's pawn move to b4. Gukesh, reflecting on the match, stated, 'Beating Magnus is always special, and this gives a bit more confidence. I had a horrible opening.'