The first day of the World Championship in the shorter versions of chess saw five rounds of rapid chess and teenagers shine through in it.

Arjun Erigaisi shines in World Rapid Chess Championship, tied fifth; Magnus Carlsen struggles; Sadhwani impresses by defeating Firouzja.

Magnus Carlsen of Norway couldn't find his mojo and drew three games and conceded a late defeat against Russian Denis Lazavik. Another Indian to impress was 13-year-old Raunak Sadhwani, who provided a glimpse of his promise by taking down one of the pre-event favourites Alireza Firouzja of France on Thursday.

FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championship will be held from December 26 (early December 27 in India) to December 31 (early January 1 in India) in Wall Street, New York.

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi faces tough competition at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship, aiming to stay in contention for the 2026 Candidates' Tournament. Top players like Magnus Carlsen,