Arjun Erigaisi Wins WR Chess Masters 2024 Title in London with Strong Analytical Skills and Quick Decision-Making
Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi emerged victorious in the WR Chess Masters 2024 tournament held in London, showcasing his exceptional analytical skills and quick decision-making abilities. The final match against Maxime Vachier-Lagrave of France was intense, with both classical games ending in draws and the title being decided via Armageddon.
Arjun strategically bid six minutes and 58 seconds, compared to Vachier-Lagrave’s 7 minutes and 48 seconds, giving him the advantage of needing just a draw with black to secure the win. However, Arjun took a bold approach and went for the win, ultimately claiming the title and a cash prize of 20,000 Euros along with 27.84 FIDE circuit points.
Having played a crucial role in India’s first Olympiad gold last month, Arjun breezed through the earlier rounds of the tournament, defeating top players like Praggnanandhaa and Vidit Gujarathi. His opponent, Vachier-Lagrave, had won three Armageddon matches on his way to the final, showcasing his resilience and determination.
The tournament featured a unique time control format for classical games, ensuring each match game concluded within four hours. Arjun expressed his satisfaction with adapting to the new format and clinching the title. With a live rating of 2796.1, he now aims to surpass the 2800 mark at the upcoming European Cup starting on October 20.
Arjun’s impressive victory highlights his prowess in the world of chess and solidifies his position as a formidable player on the international stage. Fans and fellow players alike are eager to see his continued success in future competitions.