India, July 4 -- D Gukesh scripted another monumental chapter in his young career on Thursday, defeating World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in the sixth round of the Grand Chess Tour in Zagreb. The reigning world champion, who began the day as joint leader, now stands alone at the top of the standings with 10 points, capping off a remarkable run of wins against elite opposition.

The 18-year-old Indian prodigy has already made headlines this year with his classical triumph over Carlsen in Norway Chess. But this latest result may carry even more weight. Not only did Gukesh beat the Norwegian with the white pieces in the rapid format, a time control often considered his own Achilles' heel, but he did so after Carlsen had publicly downplayed his rap...