Top Chess Players of 2025
As of June 2025, the global chess landscape is marked by the emergence of new talents and the continued dominance of seasoned grandmasters. The latest FIDE rankings reflect these shifts, showcasing a dynamic mix of experience and youthful prowess.
1. Magnus Carlsen (Norway) – 2833 Elo
The reigning World Chess Champion, Magnus Carlsen, maintains his position at the top of the FIDE rankings. Despite a limited number of classical games this year, his consistent performance cements his status as the world’s highest-rated player.
2. Hikaru Nakamura (USA) – 2826 Elo
Hikaru Nakamura has climbed to second place, benefiting from a strong performance in the Tata Steel tournament. His adaptability across various formats continues to impress the chess community.
3. Gukesh Dommaraju (India) – 2794 Elo
At just 19 years old, Gukesh Dommaraju has made history by becoming the youngest undisputed World Chess Champion. His exceptional calculating abilities and reactive style have set him apart as a formidable force in the chess world.
4. Fabiano Caruana (USA) – 2792 Elo
Fabiano Caruana remains a top contender, known for his deep opening preparation and strategic understanding. Despite recent challenges, he continues to be a key player in international tournaments.
5. Arjun Erigaisi (India) – 2801 Elo
Arjun Erigaisi has achieved a peak rating of 2801, becoming only the second Indian to surpass the 2800 Elo mark. His aggressive and unpredictable style has earned him the nickname “Mad Man” of the board.
6. Nodirbek Abdusattorov (Uzbekistan) – 2783 Elo
The 2021 World Rapid Chess Champion, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, continues to impress with his tactical brilliance and resilience in high-pressure situations.
7. Wei Yi (China) – 2762 Elo
Wei Yi has been a rising star, known for his sharp tactical vision and aggressive play. His recent performances have solidified his position among the world’s elite.
8. Alireza Firouzja (France) – 2757 Elo
Alireza Firouzja remains a dynamic force in the chess world, consistently challenging top players with his innovative strategies and deep opening knowledge.
9. Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland) – 2748 Elo
Jan-Krzysztof Duda continues to be a formidable opponent, known for his resilience and ability to outplay opponents in complex positions.
10. Praggnanandhaa R (India) – 2745 Elo
The young prodigy, Praggnanandhaa, has made significant strides, showcasing his deep understanding of the game and ability to compete at the highest levels.
11. Ian Nepomniachtchi (Russia) – 2741 Elo
Ian Nepomniachtchi remains a top contender, known for his rapid play and deep opening preparation. He continues to be a significant presence in major tournaments.
12. Wesley So (USA) – 2731 Elo
Wesley So continues to be a strong competitor, known for his solid and strategic approach to the game. His consistency keeps him among the world’s top players.
13. Levon Aronian (USA) – 2765 Elo
Levon Aronian’s deep understanding of complex positions and creative play keeps him among the elite, maintaining a high level of performance in international competitions.
14. Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (France) – 2724 Elo
Maxime Vachier-Lagrave’s sharp tactical skills and deep opening preparation continue to make him a formidable opponent in top-level chess.
15. Richard Rapport (Hungary) – 2720 Elo
Richard Rapport’s unorthodox and creative approach to the game has earned him recognition as one of the most original thinkers in modern chess.
16. Anish Giri (Netherlands) – 2715 Elo
Anish Giri’s deep opening knowledge and solid positional play keep him consistently in the top ranks, making him a reliable competitor in elite tournaments.
17. Vidit Gujrathi (India) – 2712 Elo
Vidit Gujrathi continues to be a strong presence in the chess world, known for his solid and strategic approach to the game.
18. Yu Yangyi (China) – 2708 Elo
Yu Yangyi’s consistent performances and deep understanding of the game have kept him among the world’s top players.
