Chennai Grandmasters Chess Tournament Boosts Competitive Spirit

Chennai, Aug 4 (PTI) – The third edition of the Chennai Grandmasters Chess Tournament is poised to be more thrilling than ever as India's No. 1 player, Arjun Erigaisi, prepares to face formidable challengers. Among them are experienced compatriot Vidit Gujrathi and top Dutch player, Anish Giri. This expanded tournament kicks off on Monday.

The stakes are high with a substantial prize of Rs 1 crore for the victor. Unlike previous editions, this year's tournament will feature nine rounds in a classical round-robin format, spanning both Masters and Challengers segments.

Previously conducted over just seven rounds, this version of the tournament attracts 19 Grandmasters and promises crucial FIDE Circuit points. These points are key for securing a berth in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, akin to how they facilitated D Gukesh's entry into the last Candidates, leading eventually to his world championship.

Having recently joined the elite 2800 FIDE rating club, Erigaisi will also face formidable rivals such as the rising star Nihal Sarin and Germany’s 20-year-old prodigy Vincent Keymer, who served as Gukesh’s second in last year’s World Championship.

However, Giri stands out as Erigaisi's most challenging opponent. Known for his vast experience and super-solid playing style, Giri is regarded as one of the tournament favorites.

In addition to these established players, India's own Pranav V and Karthikeyan Murali have the potential to make significant impacts with surprise victories.

The latest edition showcases a significant change in format, evolving into a 20-player event split into two distinct 10-player categories: the Masters and the Challengers.

This new format offers emerging talents a direct opportunity to compete at elite levels. The winner of the Challengers section is assured a place in the 2026 Masters.

The Challengers section includes exciting talents such as D Harika, a key member of the gold-winning women's team at last year’s 45th Chess Olympiad.

Other competitors include R Vaishali, Harshvardhan GB, Abhimanyu Puranik, and the seasoned Grandmaster Adhiban Baskaran, renowned for his aggressive strategy.

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