Aravindh Chithambaram Takes Down Vincent Keymer to Lead 2025 Prague Chess Festival Masters

In a thrilling turn of events at the 2025 Prague Chess Festival Masters, GM Aravindh Chithambaram emerged victorious over GM Vincent Keymer in round two, taking his place in the lead of the tournament. This decisive game was the highlight of the day, as the rest of the games ended in draws.

GM Sam Shankland, who drew with the black pieces against GM Thai Dai Van Nguyen, remains in the lead alongside Aravindh after two rounds. With seven rounds still to go, the competition is fierce, and every player is within striking distance of the leaders.

Aravindh’s win over Keymer was a masterclass in tactical play. Despite surviving a nearly lost position in the previous round, Aravindh seized the opportunity to outplay his opponent with a brilliant move, securing the victory. His strategic approach and calculated moves impressed both fans and commentators alike.

The rest of the games in round two were solid encounters with few chances for either side. Shankland’s choice of the King’s Indian Defense against Van Nguyen led to a balanced game, ultimately resulting in a draw. The other games also ended peacefully, with players showcasing their resilience and defensive skills.

Round three promises more exciting matchups, with Aravindh set to face the top seed and Shankland looking to maintain his lead. The competition is heating up, and fans can expect more thrilling games in the days to come.

The Challengers section also saw some exciting results, with GM Nodirbek Yakubboev joining the leaders after defeating GM Marc’Andria Maurizzi. IM Divya Deshmukh bounced back from a loss in the previous round with a win, showcasing her fighting spirit.

As the tournament progresses, the players are gearing up for more intense battles and strategic duels on the chessboard. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the 2025 Prague Chess Festival is shaping up to be a thrilling event for chess enthusiasts worldwide.