In a stunning display of skill and strategy, Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi emerged victorious in the latest Titled Tuesday event hosted by Chess.com. The competition, which took place on January 14, 2025, saw Erigaisi finish with an impressive 10 points from 11 rounds, securing his place at the top of a field that included chess titans like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana*
Erigaisi's journey through the tournament was marked by a remarkable victory against World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in the tenth round while playing with the black pieces. The win not only showcased his tactical prowess but also highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. In the final round, he continued his winning streak by defeating World No. 2 Fabiano Caruana, further solidifying his status among the elite players in the chess world.
The only blemish on Erigaisi's record came in round seven when he faced Hikaru Nakamura, who ultimately finished second in this early event. Nakamura, a renowned competitor and three-time winner of Titled Tuesday, finished with 9.5 points, just shy of Erigaisi's total.
With over 900 participants, this Titled Tuesday event is being referred to by many as "the world's strongest online tournament," a title echoed by Nakamura himself. The tournament serves as a critical platform for titled players to maintain their competitive edge and engage in high-stakes matches.
Notably absent from this edition was World Chess Champion D. Gukesh, who did not participate in the event. The Titled Tuesday series is known for its strict regulations, requiring players to be available for Zoom calls to ensure fair play.
As Arjun Erigaisi continues to rise through the ranks, this victory not only enhances his reputation but also sets the stage for future competitions where he will undoubtedly face more challenges from top players around the globe.
What was the reaction of Magnus Carlsen to his loss against Erigaisi?
Magnus Carlsen's reaction to his recent loss against Arjun Erigaisi in the Titled Tuesday event has been a mix of surprise and acknowledgment of Erigaisi's skill. Following the match, Carlsen expressed his disappointment but also praised Erigaisi's performance, recognizing that the young Indian Grandmaster played exceptionally well, particularly in their decisive encounter.
In an interview after the tournament, Carlsen stated, "I didn't expect to lose to Arjun today. He played a fantastic game, and I have to give him credit for that." This sentiment reflects a common respect among top players, where losses are often seen as opportunities for growth and learning. Carlsen's ability to remain gracious in defeat underscores his experience and professionalism in the competitive chess arena.
Despite the setback, Carlsen remains focused on his overall performance in the tournament. He noted that while the loss was disappointing, it would not deter him from his goals moving forward. "One game doesn't define my tournament," he remarked, indicating his determination to continue competing at a high level.
As both players move on from this match, the chess community is eager to see how this rivalry develops, especially with Erigaisi's rising prominence in the chess world.
With inputs from agencies
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