Nihal Sarin: Rising Star of Chess Amidst Controversy and Triumphs
Nihal Sarin: Rising Star of Chess Shines Amid Controversy
NEW DELHI: In the world of chess, where strategy and composure reign supreme, 21-year-old Nihal Sarin has emerged as a formidable force, captivating audiences both online and over the board. His journey took an unexpected turn last February during TakeTakeTake’s Titled Tuesday event, where a tense online match against Armenian player Emin Ohanyan ended in a dramatic fashion. After Nihal outmaneuvered Ohanyan in a nail-biting endgame, the Armenian player reacted by showing his middle finger to the screen and walking away, a moment that quickly went viral.
In response to the incident, Nihal took to his X account, stating, “No big deal. I was not offended. Things happen in the heat of the moment.” This incident, while shocking, has not overshadowed his remarkable achievements in the chess world.
Since that fateful day, Nihal has been making headlines for his impressive performances. In April 2026, he reached a career-high classical rating of 2723, solidifying his place among the elite in chess. His recent triumph at the Menorca Masters rapid tournament showcased his skill as he outpaced renowned players like Richard Rapport and Leinier Dominguez. Notably, he secured two consecutive victories against reigning World Champion D Gukesh, further establishing his prowess.
Despite a late draw against Rapport, Nihal’s steady composure led him to clinch the title, marking his second major trophy of the year after winning the rapid section of the Tata Steel Chess India tournament. His momentum has also translated into the digital arena, where he recently won the fourth and final Chess.com Open Play-in, scoring an unbeaten 7/9 to qualify for the Round of 16. There, he is set to face French chess legend Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, with the top three players earning a direct spot in the Esports World Cup 2026.
In an exclusive interview with Times of India, Nihal reflected on his journey, admitting that the Play-ins were a significant challenge. “It’s a massive challenge just to finish in the top two, let alone win the whole thing,” he shared. After two disappointing attempts, he adopted a more classical approach for the final Play-in, focusing on solid play rather than taking unnecessary risks.
Nihal’s zen-like philosophy towards the game has been a key factor in his recent success. “In these Play-in tournaments, you never really know who you’ll be paired against. I generally prefer to just go out and play. I try to stay fresh, live in the moment, and simply enjoy the game,” he explained.
As he eyes a spot in the Esports World Cup 2026, Nihal is acutely aware of the massive fan base cheering him on. “It means the world to me. Having that kind of support is a great feeling,” he said with a smile. “The fans are the reason we play and the reason the sport is growing so fast. I am totally thankful to all the supporters and those who enjoy the game. It’s for them that we keep pushing.”
With his remarkable talent and unwavering determination, Nihal Sarin is not just a rising star in chess; he is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring players around the world. As he continues to navigate the complexities of the game, one thing is clear: the future of chess looks bright with Nihal at the helm.