Assaubayeva Clinches With Round To Spare; Praggnanandhaa Scores Hat Trick Vs. Gukesh

GM Wesley So maintained his lead at Norway Chess 2026 after Round 9, though his advantage narrowed to just half a point over GM Praggnanandhaa after So drew against Carlsen and won an armageddon, while Praggnanandhaa achieved his third consecutive classical win defeating World Champion Gukesh. In the women’s tournament, GM Bibisara Assaubayeva clinched the title and $75,000 prize with one round remaining after drawing with GM Anna Muzychuk, having won three classical games without any losses.