Magnus Carlsen Clinches Blitz Title at Tata Steel Chess 2024, Completes Double Victory

Magnus Carlsen, the world no.1 chess player, continued his stellar performance at the Tata Steel Chess 2024 in Kolkata by clinching the blitz title with a round to spare on Sunday. Carlsen had already secured the rapid title earlier in the week, making it a remarkable double victory for the five-time world champion.

In the final round, Carlsen defeated India’s Vidit Gujrathi to secure the blitz title at the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata. Despite a setback against India’s no.1 Arjun Erigaisi in the blitz round on Saturday, Carlsen made a strong comeback and triumphed over Erigaisi in the penultimate round to seal the title with an unassailable 12 points.

Carlsen’s victory against Erigaisi in the penultimate round was a crucial moment in the tournament, as it set the stage for his ultimate triumph. With a total of 13 points, Carlsen finished on top to claim the blitz crown, completing a rare double of winning both the rapid and blitz titles at the prestigious tournament.

While Filipino-American Grandmaster Wesley finished second with 11.5 points, Erigaisi faltered in the final rounds and had to settle for third place with 10.5 points. The Indian trio of Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Gujrathi put up a strong performance but were unable to challenge Carlsen for the top spot.

In the women’s section, Kateryna Lagno of Russia emerged victorious by clinching the women’s blitz title with 11.5 points, edging out her compatriot Valentina Gunina who finished second with 12 points.

Carlsen’s exceptional performance at the Tata Steel Chess 2024 solidifies his position as the world’s best chess player, showcasing his unmatched skills and strategic prowess on the board.