'Two Golds, One Nation' - India celebrates historic double victory at Chess Olympiad 2024

The 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad 2024 in Budapest saw India create history by winning its first-ever double gold in both the open and women’s categories. In a stellar display of skill and determination, the Indian men’s team defeated Slovenia 3.5-0.5 in the final round, while the women’s team clinched a 3.5-0.5 victory against Azerbaijan to cap off a phenomenal run at the Chess Olympiad 2024.

The remarkable triumph marks a significant milestone in India’s sporting journey, establishing the country as a chess powerhouse on the rise.

Here are some reactions on X following India's historic double gold at the Chess Olympiad 2024:

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to congratulate the chess contingent. In a tweet, he expressed his admiration for the team's performance, writing:

“Historic win for India as our chess contingent wins the 45th #FIDE Chess Olympiad! India has won the Gold in both open and women’s category! This remarkable achievement marks a new chapter in India's sports trajectory.”

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also took to X, sharing his excitement over the rare double gold.

“Two Golds 🥇🥇, One Nation! 🇮🇳 Congratulations to both our men's and women's teams for securing the first spot at the #ChessOlympiad2024,” Tendulkar tweeted.

Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali's mother Naga Lakshmi earned special praise. She was referred to as “#GrandmasterAmma.”

“The real Double Gold Medal winner is this frail shy lady: Mother of Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali. How cool is that!," a tweet read.

Celebrations continued across X with reactions from Rishabh Pant, Mohit Joshi, and Anish Shah, who acknowledged the incredible performances of the Indian players.

Shah, representing Tech Mahindra, a key sponsor of the Chess Olympiad, said, “A golden era in Indian chess is here. Players and coaches have brought immense pride to the nation.”

The celebrations also saw the team bring out the famous Rohit Sharma walk from the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph.

Star Indian performers at Chess Olympiad 2024

D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanandhaa led the charge for the men’s team, securing crucial wins to bring home the gold.

On the women’s side, Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agrawal played pivotal roles, while D Harika showcased her technical brilliance.

Both teams also saw individual gold medals awarded to Gukesh, Arjun, Divya, and Vantika for their standout performances throughout the Chess Olympiad 2024.