Clutch Chess: Why is Pragg still in contention despite finishing last on Day 1?

 American grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura leads the Clutch Chess Champions Showdown 2026 with four points after Day 1. Despite finishing last with two points, India’s R Praggnanandhaa remains in contention under the tournament’s escalating scoring system. After a difficult start, including losses to Nakamura and Sindarov, Pragg defeated Fabiano Caruana in his final game, boosting his hopes of a comeback. American grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura leads the Clutch Chess Champions Showdown 2026 with four points after Day 1. Despite finishing last with two points, India’s R Praggnanandhaa remains in contention under the tournament’s escalating scoring system. After a difficult start, including losses to Nakamura and Sindarov, Pragg defeated Fabiano Caruana in his final game, boosting his hopes of a comeback.