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CircleChess launches Masters Pride program to support and connect titled players

by Tina Popli - 17/10/2025

CircleChess is introducing a new program, "Masters Pride" to bring together chess and technology. This program is being taken to support titled chess players worldwide. Those who join this program can access workshops, tournaments, mentorship, and tools to enhance their chess careers. Through this program, 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

A program for titled players

CircleChess is launching a program, "Masters Pride" for the titled chess players. Their vision is to recognize their achievements and provide global opportunities to them. The members of this program will get certain benefits which are mentioned in the article later.

“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 Praveen 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. You can check out the profiles of these members here.

What players had to say about this program

GM Praveen Thipsay

"When I first came to know about CircleChess Masters Pride program, 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."

GM Harshit Raja

"I am excited to join CircleChess Master's pride to be able to share the passion and knowledge of Chess! I love that they have an engaging and interactive platform to make it fun :)"

GM V Saravanan

"I am glad to be associated with the Master's Pride program of CircleChess, joining the organisation in spreading the game of chess to young chess players and enthusiasts. It is always a pleasure to share one's wonder of the game, to spread one's experiences to a wider audience, to be able to share the excitement of learning the intricacies of the game of chess, and I am happy that CircleChess has created the Masters Pride with that very aim. Looking forward to an interesting and purposeful journey..."

Benefits for titled players after joining this program

Recognition & Prestige

  • Global Media Exposure

  • Free entry to all 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 Tournament Participation for Top Players and bridging the gap between organizers and titled Players (Depending on the Organizer's demands and requirements)

  • Additional monetary growth opportunities

Community & Networking

  • Access to the CircleChess community

  • Opportunity to become a Practice Partner

  • Annual Offline Meet with fellow Masters Pride members

  • Opportunity to host simuls

What's in store for the Chess fans?

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

  • Catch Them Live: Watch top players in action and experience their strategies unfold in real time.

  • Learn from the Best: Attend interactive sessions and masterclasses with titled players, pick up insights, tips, and strategies at the 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 through Caissa AI.

The platform will bridge the gap between titled players and passionate fans across the world.

What else?

The members of Masters Pride program 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.

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

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 program ‘Masters Pride’ to help raise awareness within the chess community. We are not involved in the planning, organization, or execution of this program.


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