Vincent Keymer Wins 2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam

GM Vincent Keymer emerged victorious in the 2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, securing a hefty $200,000 prize after a draw in his second classical game against GM Fabiano Caruana. Keymer’s strategic pawn sacrifice in the opening neutralized Caruana’s efforts, leading to his well-deserved win.

Meanwhile, GM Magnus Carlsen clinched third place by winning his second game against GM Javokhir Sindarov, even though a draw would have sufficed. GM Hikaru Nakamura also finished strong by defeating GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov, securing fifth place.

Notably, GM Alireza Firouzja redeemed himself by defeating World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju in the second classical game, finishing in seventh place. Levon Aronian secured ninth place by winning the consolation match against Vladimir Fedoseev.

Keymer’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament, with a high accuracy rate and strategic gameplay, earned him the top prize. Carlsen, despite finishing third, acknowledged Keymer’s superior play and expressed his excitement for the upcoming event in Paris.

The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Weissenhaus showcased intense competition and unexpected outcomes, with players showcasing their skills in unique and challenging positions. The event concluded with Keymer’s impressive victory and sets the stage for the next event in Paris on April 8-15.