Carlsen seals sixth World Rapid crown in Doha, Goryachkina wins maiden title

Doha, Qatar: Norwegian maestro Magnus Carlsen underlined his dominance of elite chess by winning the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha...

Doha, Qatar: Norwegian maestro Magnus Carlsen underlined his dominance of elite chess by winning the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha yesterday, finishing a point clear of the field with 10.5 points from 13 rounds.

At Qatar University’s Sports and Events Complex, the world No. 1 claimed his sixth world rapid crown, adding to an extraordinary career tally of 19 world titles across classical, rapid, and blitz formats. The victory also earned the 35-year-old the top prize of €70,000 after fiercely contested championship.

Carlsen sealed the title in the decisive final round by drawing with the Netherlands’ Anish Giri, the tournament’s third seed. The result proved sufficient after overnight leader Vladislav Artemiev, who competed under the FIDE flag, was held to a draw by Wesley So of the United States, allowing Carlsen to move clear at the top. Giri finished in 11th place on 8.5 points.

Carlsen expressed his delight after securing the title, stressing that the challenge was demanding against a field packed with elite players.

“I am very happy to win the title here in Qatar,” Carlsen said.