Nihal Sarin Emerges Victorious in 18th Tashkent Open, Agzamov Memorial 2025

Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin emerged victorious in the 18th Tashkent Open, Agzamov Memorial 2025, after securing a draw in his final game against GM Shamsiddin Vokhidov from Uzbekistan. With this win, Nihal finished half a point ahead of the competition, solidifying his dominance in the tournament.

The Agzamov Memorial Chess Tournament, held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from March 21 to 29, 2025, featured two sections: Group A and Group B. Nihal Sarin, who remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, scored an impressive 8/10 to claim first place. He outperformed other strong players, including Sanan Sjugirov, Abhimanyu Puranik, Bardiya Daneshvar, and Shamsiddin Vokhidov, who shared second to fifth places.

Nihal Sarin’s victory at the Agzamov Memorial marks his second major success in Uzbekistan, following his win at the President Cup in Tashkent in December 2024. With this win, Nihal is now just 5.9 points away from entering the elite 2700 rating club, showcasing his rapid rise in the world of chess.

Born in Kerala, India, Nihal Sarin’s early talent for chess was nurtured by his family and coaches. His remarkable achievements in national and international tournaments, including winning titles in various age categories and earning prestigious titles such as Grandmaster, highlight his exceptional skills and dedication to the game.

As Nihal continues to excel in the world of chess, experts believe he is on track to become a formidable contender for the Chess World Championship, solidifying his status as a rising star in the chess world.