Exciting Start to the 2024 U.S. Chess Championship: Draws in Round One Dash Hopes of Perfect Score

The 2024 U.S. Chess Championship has kicked off with a bang, as draws on all boards in round one have already dashed the hopes of a player repeating GM Bobby Fischer’s perfect score from the 1958 championship. However, the competition for the U.S. championship title and the $55,000 first prize is heating up.

In the men’s event, GM Hans Niemann came close to winning his round one game against defending champion GM Fabiano Caruana, but missed a crucial opportunity. In the women’s event, IM Carissa Yip, IM Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova, and FM Rose Atwell emerged victorious in their games.

With round two starting on October 12, the competition is expected to intensify. The world number three Caruana is a strong contender to retain his title, but faces tough competition from veterans like Levon Aronian, Wesley So, and Sam Shankland. Young talents like Christopher Yoo and Awonder Liang also pose a threat, along with the dark horse GM Hans Niemann.

In the women’s event, former champions like Irina Krush and Anna Zatonskih will try to reclaim the title from Carissa Yip, while young prodigies like Alice Lee are expected to make their mark.

The U.S. Chess Championship, sponsored by Rex and Jeanne Sinquefield, offers a $402,000 prize fund and has attracted the top talents in the country. With intense games and strategic maneuvers, the championship promises to be a thrilling event for chess enthusiasts.