2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Semifinals: Keymer Upsets Carlsen, Caruana vs. Sindarov Ends in Draw

In a stunning turn of events, GM Vincent Keymer defeated world number-one GM Magnus Carlsen in game one of the 2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Semifinals. The starting position, position 360, had both players scratching their heads, but Keymer managed to outmaneuver Carlsen and secure a crucial victory. On the other board, GM Fabiano Caruana vs. GM Javokhir Sindarov ended in a draw, with Sindarov missing a big chance at the end of the game.

In the matches for fifth place, GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov and GM Alireza Firouzja also ended in a draw, with Abdusattorov missing an opportunity to secure a win. GM Hikaru Nakamura had some pressure in the endgame against World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju, but the game ended in a balanced draw.

The stage is set for an intense day six of the 2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, with Keymer on the brink of advancing to the Final. The matches for fifth place are also up for grabs, with players looking to secure a higher placement in the tournament.

The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam has been full of surprises and intense battles, with players showcasing their skills in unconventional starting positions. The competition continues to heat up as the players vie for the $200,000 first prize and a chance to be crowned the champion of this prestigious tournament. Stay tuned for more exciting chess action on Wednesday, February 12 at 7 a.m. ET / 13:00 CET / 5:30 p.m. IST.