Nodirbek Yakubboev emerges victorious at UzChess Cup 2024

Despite being the underdog in the UzChess Cup, Nodirbek Yakubboev emerged victorious after a thrilling final round against Yu Yangyi. The tournament, held in Tashkent, saw Yakubboev and Nodirbek Abdusattorov tied for first place with 5½ points each, but it was Yakubboev who clinched the title with a better tiebreak score.

Yakubboev’s victory is even more impressive considering he was the lowest-rated player in a field that included 8 players with a 2700+ rating. His performance highlights his ability to excel in high-stakes events, as he previously won the 2023 Qatar Masters ahead of top players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura.

The tournament also saw Richard Rapport finishing undefeated with 4½/9 points, showcasing his consistency throughout the event. Despite the strong competition, 7 out of the 10 participants ended with a 50-percent score or above, with only three players falling below the 4½ point mark.

Yakubboev’s success serves as a reminder that in chess, ratings and rankings do not always determine the outcome. His victory over strong opponents like Abdusattorov and Yangyi solidifies his position as a rising star in the chess world.

With his recent triumph at the UzChess Cup, Yakubboev continues to defy expectations and prove that in the game of chess, anything is possible.