GM Hans Niemann Wins Super Grandmaster Match Against GM Vidit Gujrathi, Takes Home $30,000 Prize

GM Hans Niemann emerged victorious in a thrilling Super Grandmaster Match against GM Vidit Gujrathi, securing a prize fund of $50,000 in the process. The Universal Chess Tour (UCT) selected Niemann and Gujrathi for their exceptional chess skills and ability to draw in media attention and fans.

The high-stakes match took place at the NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills, Texas, as part of the UCT’s Universal Chess Open event. The match format was intense, with each round consisting of multiple games played at increasingly quick time controls. Niemann ultimately clinched the victory by winning two out of the three rounds, earning himself $30,000, while Gujrathi received $20,000 for his efforts.

In addition to the main event, a Celebrity Chess Tournament was held earlier in the day, with NFL player Chidobe Awuzie emerging as the champion. Awuzie, a cornerback for the Tennessee Titans, showcased his chess skills against other celebrities, including NFL quarterback Kyler Murray.

The Universal Open, which featured a $150,000 prize fund across seven sections, saw a competitive field of players vying for the top honors. Five players tied for first place in the open section, including GMs Mikhail Antipov and Brian Escalante, as well as IM Andy Woodward. The tournament provided an exciting platform for players of all levels to showcase their talents and compete for substantial cash prizes.

Overall, the Super Grandmaster Match, Celebrity Chess Tournament, and Universal Open were a resounding success, attracting chess enthusiasts and fans from around the world. The UCT plans to continue hosting similar events in the future, promising more thrilling matches and exciting competitions for chess lovers everywhere.