Mikhail Antipov Crowned Champion at the 2026 Saint Louis Masters Chess Tournament

Mikhail Antipov Claims Victory at 2026 Saint Louis Masters

Saint Louis, MO — The 2026 Saint Louis Masters, held from February 25 to March 1 at the renowned Saint Louis Chess Club, concluded with an unexpected twist as 11th-seeded Grandmaster Mikhail Antipov emerged as the champion. This prestigious tournament, featuring 70 elite competitors from 23 federations, served as a prelude to the highly anticipated American Cup, which kicks off tomorrow.

Antipov finished with an impressive score of 7½ out of 9, edging out top-seeded GM Fabiano Caruana by half a point. The victory not only earned Antipov a prize of $25,000 but also marked his return to a FIDE rating above 2600 for the first time since November 2024. Caruana, who took home $15,000, had entered the final round with high hopes but was unable to convert winning chances against his opponent.

Entering the final round, both Antipov and Caruana were tied at 6½ points, a full point ahead of the competition. While Caruana struggled to capitalize on his position, Antipov seized an early initiative against GM Andy Woodward and maintained control throughout the game.

The tournament featured a pivotal third-round draw between Antipov and Caruana, a result that would ultimately prove crucial for Antipov’s championship run.

Rising Stars Shine Bright

The Saint Louis Masters also provided a platform for emerging talents, with three players earning Grandmaster norms: New Yorkers IM Liam Putnam and IM Tanitoluwa Adewumi, along with Canadian IM Anthony Atanasov. Putnam’s performance, scoring 5½ out of 9, secured his third and final GM norm, while Adewumi finished with a remarkable score of 6 out of 9, tying for fourth place.

Adewumi, who had to forgo the 58th Annual New York State High School Championship to compete in St. Louis, expressed satisfaction with his decision. “It was a tough choice, but earning a GM norm makes it all worth it,” he said.

Atanasov, the only foreign player to earn a norm, showcased an undefeated performance, including two victories over Grandmasters, and gained 25 FIDE rating points in the process.

Notable Achievements

California’s FM Rose Atwell also made headlines by earning an International Master norm with a score of 4 out of 9 against a challenging field. Her performance included a win over GM Harsha Bharathakoti and several draws against other Grandmasters, showcasing her potential on the international stage.

IM Carissa Yip, the top-finishing female player, earned $2,500 after recovering from a rocky start. After beginning the tournament with three losses, Yip rebounded to finish with a score of 4½ out of 5, culminating in a decisive victory over GM Benjamin Bok.

Looking Ahead

As the chess community turns its attention to the American Cup, which begins with its first classical game at noon CST on March 3, excitement is palpable. The innovative format and lineup promise to deliver thrilling matches. For more details on the event and how to follow live, visit the Saint Louis Chess Club event page.

With the Saint Louis Masters now concluded, the stage is set for another exhilarating chapter in the world of chess.