In a thrilling seventh round of Norway Chess 2025, Grandmaster Fabiano Caruana emerged as the leader after delivering a crucial victory against GM Wei Yi, who celebrated his 26th birthday. Caruana capitalized on a pawn advantage to secure a win in an endgame that initially appeared equal. Meanwhile, World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju maintained pressure, scoring his first classical victory against GM Arjun Erigaisi by overcoming a challenging position, a scenario uncannily similar to his prior match against Carlsen, where he also rallied from a precarious position to clinch victory.
The day was significant for the women’s tournament as GM Ju Wenjun claimed her first classical win against IM Sara Khadem, taking the lead with three rounds remaining. In her match, Ju revealed that an early risky move in the opening set her on a decisive path to victory. Additionally, GM Anna Muzychuk’s armageddon win over GM Koneru Humpy kept the competition fierce at the top of the women’s standings.
The ongoing commentary and reactions from players highlighted the emotional intensity of the matches, particularly regarding Magnus Carlsen, who recently faced criticism after slamming the table in frustration following his loss to Gukesh. Carlsen later expressed regret about his reaction, and commentators reflected on the wider implications of how emotions are displayed in competitive environments.
Notably, the round featured several decisive matches with a total of four classical wins, uplifting the excitement surrounding the tournament. Caruana now leads the open tournament, but with three points available per win, the competition remains open for unexpected developments in the upcoming rounds.
As round eight approaches, the trio of leaders in the open tournament will be facing formidable opponents, while Ju Wenjun will attempt to solidify her lead in the women’s category against Vaishali Rameshbabu. The tension builds as players vie for victory in this prestigious chess event in Stavanger, which runs until June 6, 2025.
The atmosphere is electric as chess enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how the players will strategize and adapt in the heat of competition.