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CircleChess launches Masters Pride program to support and connect titled players

by Tina Popli - 13/10/2025

CircleChess is introducing a new initiative, "Masters Pride" to bring together chess and technology. This initiative is being taken to support titled chess players worldwide. It will provide a platform for recognition, development, and global opportunities to established champions and emerging talents. Those who join this program can access workshops, tournaments, mentorship, and tools to enhance their chess careers. Through this initiative, fans also gain access to masterclasses, live games, and AI-powered learning resources. The program aims to build a connected community of titled players and enthusiasts, to foster collaboration and growth within the global chess ecosystem. Check out the article to know more. Photo: CircleChess

Recognizing the efforts of titled players worldwide

Earning a chess title is no small feat. It represents years of dedication, discipline, and passion for the game. Yet, too often, titled players don’t receive the recognition and opportunities they truly deserve. That’s why CircleChess came up with an initiative, "Masters Pride". Their vision is to celebrate titled players’ achievements while building a platform that amplifies their legacy globally. Through this initiative, players will get many benefits and global opportunities designed exclusively for them.

“Our vision is simple - titled players should not just be remembered for their past victories, but supported for their future impact on the game. Masters Pride is our way of building that ecosystem in the global Chess community, powered by cutting-edge technology.”

-Kumar Gaurav, Founder of CircleChess

Chief Chess Officer of CircleChess, GM Vishnu Prasanna, shares:

“A chess title is a recognition of mastery; Master's Pride is where mastery transforms into influence, innovation, and impact. Through this Program, CircleChess not only honors the achievements of titled players but also provides pathways for them to grow their intellectual property, gain global recognition, and build an enduring influence within the chess community.”

Official logo of CircleChess Masters Pride. | Photo: CircleChess

14 Titled Players, have already been onboarded in the Masters Pride Program. | Photo: CircleChess

Already, a few Titled Players are a part of this program. There will be two groups in the Masters Pride program: Elite and Stars. The Elite group will feature established champions like GM Shyam Sundar, GM Sethuraman, GM Harshit Raja, GM Pravin Thipsay, GM Elisabeth Paehtz and more, whereas the Stars group will feature emerging titled players like GM Miloje Ratkovic, IM Mohammad Shaikh, IM Abhishek Kelkar and IM Swayangsu Satyapragyan. Together, they form a dynamic network that strengthens the spirit of chess and inspires the next generation. You can check out the profiles of these members here.

What players had to say about this program

GM Pravin Thipsay

"When I first came to know about CircleChess Masters Pride Initiative, I thought that it would be just like any other training program. However, after interaction with other trainers & the representatives of CircleChess, I realised that this was a much more sincere and well-planned effort to help Chess students to grow in a systematic & all-round way. I am sure that with every minute point taken into account, CircleChess Masters Pride will soon emerge Pride of India."

GM S P Sethuraman

"I am really excited to be part of CircleChess Masters Pride. It’s a unique platform that combines innovation with a deep passion for chess, almost like a modern day bible for players. I love how it brings together the community, learning, and progress under one roof, helping players at every level grow and stay inspired."

GM Shyam Sundar

"It’s a unique project, and I’m excited to see what it can offer to chess lovers. I’m glad to be part of it and contribute toward making chess a memorable learning experience."

About CircleChess

CircleChess has taken many initiatives to make chess more accessible through their offerings and products. Their WhatsApp bot, chess club events, tech-driven coaching platform Caissa School of Chess and Caissa AI tool are part of these efforts to integrate technology with chess learning and engagement. The platform is endorsed by World Champion D Gukesh and supported by many Grandmasters like GM Vishnu Prasanna, GM Vidit Gujrathi, GM Srinath, GM Akash and more. With Masters Pride, CircleChess aims to create a platform dedicated to titled players, to highlight their achievements and explore new opportunities for them within the global chess community.

Benefits for titled players after joining this program

Recognition & Prestige

  • Global Media Exposure

  • Free entry up to Rs. 60 lakh to CircleChess Prize money tournaments

  • GM Workshops Invitation

  • Puzzles/tournaments in their name

Career & Development

  • Coaching and CircleChess Product Innovation Opportunities

  • Mentorship support

  • Opportunity to launch their own courses at CircleChess

Financial & Tournament Support

  • Facilitating Exclusive Tournament Participation for Top Players and bridging the gap between organizers and titled Players

  • Additional monetary growth opportunities

Community & Networking

  • Exclusive access to the CircleChess community

  • Opportunity to become a Practice Partner

  • Annual Offline Meet with fellow Masters Pride members

  • Opportunity to host simuls

Being a member means a Titled Player’s journey is celebrated, supported, and elevated to the world stage. For too long, titled players have carried their victories quietly, often without the recognition and support they deserve. This platform will be a place where their achievements are celebrated, their voices heard, and their role in shaping the future of chess is secured.

What's in store for the Chess fans?

Fans and enthusiasts will get unparalleled access to the world of chess:

  • Catch Them Live: Watch top players in action, experience their strategies unfold in real time, and get a front-row seat to thrilling games.

  • Learn from the Best: Attend interactive sessions and masterclasses with titled players, pick up insights, tips, and strategies directly from the best at Caissa School of Chess.

  • Gameplay & AI-powered Tools: Play alongside masters, analyze games instantly, and use AI-driven tools to track your progress and improve smarter through Caissa AI.

The platform will bridge the gap between titled players and passionate fans across the world, making the best of chess just a click away.

Beyond Collaboration: A Platform to Build Their IP and Legacy

Masters Pride is more than just a collaborative Program. It’s a platform where titled players can truly leave their mark on the chess world. The members can:

  • Create and enhance their own IP - CircleChess will design puzzles, tournaments, courses, or content that carry their name and legacy.

  • Host tournaments and courses, under their brand, giving them global exposure and recognition.

Also, CircleChess will build a dedicated profile page for the Members where fans, students, and chess enthusiasts can explore their journey, achievements, and contributions.

The titled players will also be given the tools to shape their own influence, inspire the next generation, and build a lasting legacy in the chess ecosystem.

Who can join?

Masters Pride Club is an exclusive, invite-only platform. Any titled player across the world can apply to join in.

How to join?

Invitations are extended directly by CircleChess. However, titled players interested in exploring this opportunity can schedule a call with the CircleChess team to discuss eligibility and more details.

Join the Masters Pride Program

Note: ChessBase India is sharing information about the CircleChess initiative ‘Masters Pride’ to help raise awareness within the chess community. We are not involved in the planning, organization, or execution of this initiative.


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