The chess world in 2025 is buzzing with excitement, as a new generation of prodigies continues to rise through the ranks with explosive precision and fearless play. The Top 10 Young Chess Players are not only redefining classical strategy but also dominating rapid and blitz formats with unmatched confidence. These young grandmasters—some still in their teens—are battling legends on equal footing and setting new benchmarks for modern chess brilliance.
From aggressive opening theories to psychological depth in endgames, the Top 10 Young Chess Players in 2025 are pushing the limits of what’s possible over the board. These players are not just future champions; many are already national icons and global superstars. With bold performances at the Candidates Tournament, World Cup, and prestigious global events like Tata Steel and Norway Chess, they’ve earned respect from veterans and fans alike.
This year, the chess scene has shifted to favor younger minds who blend AI-based prep with human intuition. With their advanced understanding of engines, pattern recognition, and mental resilience, the Top 10 Young Chess Players of 2025 are changing how the game is played—and won. Their games are followed live by millions, dissected by analysts, and serve as inspiration for an entire generation of aspiring talents.
In this list, we explore 10 extraordinary individuals who have captured the chess world’s attention. Ranked from 10 to 1, each player has earned their spot through consistent results, fearless playstyles, and a hunger to dethrone the old guard. Whether they are teenage titans or early-20s tacticians, these players represent the bold new face of chess.
So, if you’re wondering who the future world champions might be—or simply want to witness the evolution of modern chess—look no further than our curated ranking of the Top 10 Young Chess Players to watch in 2025. The future is already here, and it’s checkmating expectations.
Top 10 Young Chess Players to Watch
10. Jonas Buhl Bjerre (Denmark)
Jonas Buhl Bjerre is Denmark’s rising chess star who continues to impress fans and analysts alike with his steady climb through the elite ranks. At just 20 years old in 2025, Bjerre has already marked his presence on the global stage with a refined positional style and exceptional endgame technique. His calm demeanor over the board often disguises the tactical depth he carries—making him a serious threat in long, classical formats.
One of the most promising players in the Top 10 Young Chess Players list, Bjerre made headlines after securing a top-5 finish at the European Individual Chess Championship 2024 and delivering a standout performance at the FIDE World Cup. His consistent improvement and adaptability against stronger opposition prove that he’s not just a temporary talent but a future grandmaster with staying power.
What sets Bjerre apart among the Top 10 Young Chess Players is his ability to stay composed in complicated positions. His preparation in dynamic openings like the Grünfeld and the Catalan has allowed him to surprise stronger players and win critical matchups in team events for Denmark. He has also represented his country with maturity at the Chess Olympiad, often taking on board 1 duties with poise beyond his years.
As 2025 unfolds, all eyes are on Jonas Buhl Bjerre to see whether he can transition from a promising junior to a full-time contender in the super-GM circuit. With his clean technique and growing experience, Bjerre is clearly on a trajectory that could put him among the global elite. His inclusion in the Top 10 Young Chess Players is no fluke—it’s a glimpse into a future where Denmark might just produce its first world champion.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2663 (Standard) |
9. Gukesh D (India)
Dommaraju Gukesh, more popularly known as Gukesh D, continues to make waves in 2025 as one of the most explosive young talents in the world. At only 18 years old, Gukesh has already defeated multiple top-10 grandmasters, showcasing tactical brilliance and fearless play. His name firmly belongs in the Top 10 Young Chess Players as he emerges as a serious contender in elite-level competitions.
Gukesh’s rise began with his stunning run in the 2022 Olympiad, where he helped India secure a bronze medal by beating higher-rated opponents on board one. Since then, his growth has been relentless. In 2024, he secured multiple podium finishes at the Chessable Masters and made a deep run in the FIDE Grand Swiss. His aggressive opening repertoire—ranging from the Sicilian to the King’s Indian—keeps opponents under pressure from move one.
What makes Gukesh stand out among the Top 10 Young Chess Players is his intuitive calculation and refusal to settle for draws. He constantly searches for dynamic, unbalanced positions—making his games fan favorites. His mature handling of complex endgames and his willingness to fight until the last pawn reflects a champion’s mindset.
In 2025, Gukesh is being closely watched as a potential World Championship challenger. With a growing fan base and training support from India’s elite coaching ecosystem, he’s steadily building his credentials. Among the Top 10 Young Chess Players, Gukesh represents both raw energy and strategic depth—a rare combination that places him firmly in the spotlight.
| Personal Best | FIDE Rating – 2758 (2023) |
8. Vincent Keymer (Germany)
Vincent Keymer has firmly established himself as Germany’s brightest chess prospect and one of the top 10 young chess players in the world. At just 20 years old in 2025, he has already made a deep impact on the international circuit, defeating established grandmasters and playing in elite events like the Tata Steel Masters and the Grand Swiss.
Keymer’s style is built on deep strategic understanding and exceptional opening preparation. Trained under the mentorship of GM Peter Leko, he blends classical discipline with creative risk-taking, allowing him to go toe-to-toe with some of the world’s best. His breakout performances in the 2023 FIDE Grand Prix and his near qualification for the Candidates Tournament proved that he has the mental toughness to compete at the very highest level.
What places Keymer among the top 10 young chess players is not just his raw talent, but his remarkable consistency. He has shown the ability to bounce back from losses, learn from mistakes, and adapt quickly—a sign of maturity well beyond his age. His games reflect a unique mix of German precision and imaginative calculation, making him a well-rounded competitor.
In 2025, Keymer is on the radar for every major tournament. With sponsorship support, a growing fanbase, and solid backing from the German Chess Federation, he is expected to climb even higher in the FIDE rankings. As one of the top 10 young chess players to watch, his career is clearly on an upward path, and fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see if he can break into the 2750+ rating club and take on the very best.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2708 (2024) |
7. Arjun Erigaisi (India)
Arjun Erigaisi continues to rise as one of the most fearless and consistent players among the top 10 young chess players in 2025. Known for his exceptional speed and positional clarity, Arjun has emerged as one of India’s biggest hopes for the World Championship title. His performances over the past two years have earned him a solid place in super-tournaments like the Tata Steel Masters, Norway Chess, and the FIDE Grand Swiss.
What sets Arjun apart among the top 10 young chess players is his lightning-quick calculation and sharp opening repertoire. Equally comfortable in classical and rapid formats, he’s a frequent winner in elite online events and has proven his strength over the board with multiple victories against top-20 opponents. His tactical instincts combined with a deep understanding of endgame fundamentals make him an all-around threat.
In 2024, Arjun notched major wins at the Sharjah Masters and the Biel Chess Festival, firmly solidifying his place in the elite circuit. His humble demeanor off the board contrasts sharply with his aggressive, no-compromise playing style. Arjun doesn’t shy away from complications, often steering games into sharp battles where he thrives under pressure.
As he competes in 2025, Arjun is seen as a major force in the new wave of grandmasters. With consistent training, deep preparation, and growing international exposure, he is a strong candidate to break into the Candidates Tournament soon. His rapid ascent and dedication to improving place him squarely among the top 10 young chess players, and many believe his peak is yet to come.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2727 (2024) |
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6. Nodirbek Abdusattorov (Uzbekistan)
Nodirbek Abdusattorov has already proven himself on the world stage, and in 2025, he remains one of the strongest contenders among the top 10 young chess players. At just 20 years old, he’s achieved milestones many only dream of—most notably, leading Uzbekistan to gold at the 2022 Chess Olympiad and winning the World Rapid Championship in 2021 by defeating several top-tier grandmasters, including Magnus Carlsen.
Abdusattorov’s playing style is precise and fearless. He often enters sharp positions and thrives in tactical chaos, yet he also possesses a refined positional sense when required. His speed on the board is one of his deadliest weapons, especially in rapid and blitz formats, where he consistently outplays seasoned veterans. His adaptability across all time controls cements his place in the top 10 young chess players.
In classical tournaments, Abdusattorov continues to push boundaries. In 2024, he reached the semifinals of the FIDE Grand Prix and achieved victories over higher-rated players in elite invitationals. His confident play and endgame technique reflect maturity beyond his years, while his calm demeanor allows him to stay grounded despite the growing spotlight.
As the pride of Uzbekistan, Abdusattorov is more than just a national hero—he’s a future world title contender. In 2025, many experts believe he could earn a seat at the Candidates Tournament. With elite coaching, unmatched determination, and a growing reputation, he’s undeniably a star among the top 10 young chess players, and fans are watching his journey closely.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2745 (2023) |
5. Marc’Andria Maurizzi (France)
Marc’Andria Maurizzi, born in 2007, is France’s youngest-ever Grandmaster and a major highlight among the top 10 young chess players in 2025. He made headlines in 2021 by clinching the Grandmaster title at just 14, and since then, his progress has been fast and formidable. By 2024, Maurizzi had secured key victories in the European Youth Championships and showed strong performances in top-tier open events.
Maurizzi’s playing style is fearless and initiative-driven. He loves dynamic positions, thrives in tactical complexities, and isn’t afraid to take risks on the board. This assertiveness has earned him many upsets against higher-rated players and helped him climb the international rankings.
His crowning moment came in late 2024 when he reached the finals of the French National Championship and qualified for the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss. He also played a pivotal role on the French national team, helping them secure critical wins in the Olympiad qualifiers.
Maurizzi’s confidence, natural talent, and bold strategic choices make him one of the most exciting prospects in chess. He is set to be a regular in elite tournaments, and his continued growth justifies his place among the top 10 young chess players to watch in 2025.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2677 (2024) |
4. Javokhir Sindarov (Uzbekistan)
Javokhir Sindarov is a rising star from Uzbekistan who has become one of the most thrilling names among the top 10 young chess players in 2025. He achieved the Grandmaster title at the astonishing age of 12, making him one of the youngest in history. By 2024, he had solidified his spot near the 2700 mark, drawing global attention for his consistency and sharp play.
Sindarov’s style is aggressive yet highly accurate. He thrives in open positions and is especially lethal in fast time controls, where his instincts often outpace seasoned opponents. A key member of Uzbekistan’s gold medal-winning Olympiad team in 2022, Sindarov has since stepped into the spotlight as one of Asia’s top prodigies.
In 2024, he reached the semifinals of the World Junior Championship and scored crucial victories at the Chessable Masters and the Tata Steel Challengers event. His deep calculations and ability to remain calm under pressure set him apart from many of his peers.
Sindarov’s dedication and international experience make him a serious contender for the upper echelon of world chess. As one of the top 10 young chess players in 2025, he continues to break barriers and inspire young talents across Central Asia.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2698 (2024) |
3. Hans Niemann (USA)
Hans Niemann remains one of the most talked-about and analyzed figures in modern chess. Born in 2003, Niemann’s rise through the elite ranks has been both dramatic and determined, and in 2025, he holds firm as a central force among the top 10 young chess players. Known for his unfiltered confidence and deeply intuitive playing style, Niemann has carved out his place through grit and consistent high-level performances.
Niemann’s chess is energetic and imaginative. He often goes for dynamic, double-edged positions that push opponents out of their comfort zones. With strong preparation and a never-back-down attitude, he thrives under pressure and frequently surprises even the most experienced players. His aggressive yet calculated approach was on full display in the 2024 Sinquefield Cup and the European Club Cup, where he posted notable wins against top 10-ranked grandmasters.
Aside from his over-the-board achievements, Niemann is also a powerful figure in the digital chess space. He’s extremely active online, combining competitive play with streaming and commentary, which has helped popularize chess among younger audiences.
Despite past controversies, Niemann has remained focused on proving himself through performance. In 2025, his results speak louder than anything else. He’s continued to climb the rankings, secured a spot in the Candidates Tournament cycle, and reaffirmed his position as one of the most formidable members of the top 10 young chess players.
As the new generation matures, Niemann is not just keeping up—he’s aiming to lead it. With a reputation for boldness and a hunger to win, he’s a player the chess world watches closely, not just for his moves, but for the mark he’s determined to leave on the sport.
| Personal Best | FIDE Rating – 2708 (2024) |
2. Shant Sargsyan (Armenia)
Shant Sargsyan has become one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from Armenia in recent years. As of 2025, he comfortably ranks among the top 10 young chess players who are capturing global attention. Born in 2002, Shant earned his Grandmaster title in 2019 and has steadily climbed the ranks through strong performances across top-tier tournaments.
With a peak FIDE rating of 2705 reached in 2024, Sargsyan has established himself as a serious force on the board. He is known for his precise calculation, creative play in dynamic positions, and psychological toughness—traits that have helped him outwit higher-ranked opponents in both open and invitational events.
Shant has been a key member of Armenia’s national team, delivering consistent results in Olympiads and European Team Championships. His fighting spirit and ability to turn seemingly equal positions into wins have made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opponents. In 2024, he reached the knockout stages of the FIDE World Cup and performed strongly at the Grand Swiss.
Among the top 10 young chess players in 2025, Shant stands out for his mature style and relentless work ethic. Many believe he has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Armenian legends like Levon Aronian and challenge for the world stage in the near future.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2705 (2024) |
1. Raunak Sadhwani (India)
Raunak Sadhwani claims the top spot among the top 10 young chess players to watch in 2025, representing the latest wave of India’s rapidly growing chess dominance. Born in 2005, Raunak earned his Grandmaster title at just 13 and has since continued to evolve into one of the sharpest tactical minds in the game.
With a peak FIDE rating of 2694 reached in 2024, Raunak is on the brink of entering the 2700+ super-GM club, a milestone that would cement his place among the elite. Known for his aggressive style and remarkable opening preparation, he has consistently surprised higher-rated players in top-tier events such as the FIDE Grand Swiss, TATA Steel Challengers, and online Champions Chess Tour events.
Raunak’s performances in team events like the FIDE Online Olympiad and World Youth Championships have been stellar. He brings not just results but a strong presence on the board, often dictating the pace of play against much older opponents. His attacking instincts and relentless calculation make him a serious threat in complex positions.
As of 2025, Raunak Sadhwani is not just a rising talent but a near-finished product poised for global breakthrough. Among the top 10 young chess players today, he embodies a bold and fearless approach that defines this new generation of grandmasters.
| Personal Best | Peak FIDE Rating – 2694 (2024) |
FAQs
Q1: Who are the top 10 young chess players in 2025?
A: The top 10 young chess players in 2025 include rising stars like Raunak Sadhwani, Shant Sargsyan, Gukesh D, and Javokhir Sindarov—each showing elite-level potential and consistently impressive FIDE performances.
Q2: What age group qualifies as a young chess player?
A: Typically, young chess players are those under the age of 25, often already holding Grandmaster titles and competing in international tournaments.
Q3: Is Praggnanandhaa still considered a young chess player in 2025?
A: By 2025, Praggnanandhaa has moved into the elite senior category due to his consistent high-ranking presence and age. The list focuses on newer upcoming talents just below that tier.
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