Praggnanandhaa R spoke about the money he earned at the Grand Chess Tour 2026. Pragg says that winning the event matters more to him, and notes financial support from his sponsor Adani Group. Pragg shared his thoughts in an interview with ChessBase India.

Praggnanandhaa R

Praggnanandhaa R

India's No. 1

“For me, winning the tournament is what matters. If I came in second place money-wise but had actually won the tournament, I would still be happy.

Of course, I’m happy that through all the playing, I’m also earning well and that’s good. But it’s not something I’m chasing. For me, tournament victories are what I personally enjoy. It’s not really about the prize.

I think it’s also a fact that when you have stable support from the Adani Group, you don’t really have to worry too much about the financial aspect. They’re always there to support me, and that makes sure I don’t have to chase money or anything. I just have to play my best in every tournament.

That also allows you to fight in every game. You don’t have to bother about making a few thousand dollars here or there because of some draws or something. I don’t have to think about it, I can just play freely.”

The Grand Chess Tour is an annual circuit of international tournaments, featuring Classical, Rapid, and Blitz formats. Pragg played in four out of five events and won the tour. He won the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz and the GCT Finals, finished second at the Sinquefield Cup, and finished third at the Super Rapid & Blitz Croatia. Pragg earned $404,354 across all tour events he played.

Credit: Michal Walusza