Highlights from the 3 0 Thursday Tournaments: Nakamura, Drygalov, and Terry Shine

First Tournament: Nakamura Streams His Way to Victory

Second Tournament: Drygalov Claims First 3 0 Thursday Win

Third Tournament: Terry Sets Record with 16th Victory

Hikaru Nakamura Dominates 3 0 Thursday with Stellar Performance

July 16, 2026 – In a thrilling display of speed and strategy, Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura streamed his way to victory in the inaugural 3 0 Thursday tournament, showcasing his prowess in the fast-paced format that he claims is his strongest. With a remarkable score of 9.5 points, Nakamura not only secured first place but also captivated his audience with his insightful commentary throughout the event.

First Tournament: Nakamura’s Unstoppable Run

From the outset, Nakamura expressed confidence in his chances, and he quickly proved his predictions correct by winning his first four games. Despite a hiccup in the fifth round against GM Volodar Murzin, where he mismanaged a time-scramble, Nakamura rebounded impressively, clinching victories in the next five rounds. His ability to leverage the clock to his advantage was evident, particularly in a tense seventh game against IM Reza Mahdavi, where he emerged victorious despite an inferior position.

As the tournament progressed, Nakamura found himself in a tight race with IM Renato Terry, who was leading the pack. In the final round, GM Sina Movahed posed the only real threat to Nakamura’s lead. However, Nakamura’s strategic acumen shone through, and he managed to secure a draw, finishing the tournament with an impressive 9.5 points. Movahed took second place on tiebreaks with nine points, while Terry rounded out the top three.

In a notable achievement, IM Le Thao Nguyen Pham claimed the top women’s prize with a commendable 7.5 points, defeating her 3000+ rated opponent FM Matfey Rogov in the final round.

Second Tournament: Drygalov’s Breakthrough Victory

The second tournament of the day saw GM Sergey Drygalov clinch his first-ever 3 0 Thursday win, narrowly edging out GM Fabiano Caruana on tiebreaks. Drygalov’s path to victory was marked by a series of impressive attacking games, including a standout performance against GM-elect Faustino Oro in the fourth round.

In a dramatic final round, Drygalov faced GM Oleksandr Bortnyk and executed a brilliant knight sacrifice that secured his victory. This win, combined with some fortunate outcomes in other matches, allowed Drygalov to surpass Caruana, who had previously defeated GM Jose Martinez, a seasoned contender with 15 Thursday victories under his belt.

Martinez ultimately finished third with 8.5 points, while NM Liudmyla Ivanytska took home the women’s prize with a solid 5.5 points.

Third Tournament: Terry Sets Record with 16th Victory

In the third tournament, IM Renato Terry emerged as the unexpected champion, achieving his record 16th victory in the 3 0 Thursday series. After a rocky start, losing to GM Parham Maghsoodloo in the fifth round, Terry rallied to secure four wins and two draws in his remaining games.

Despite leading throughout the tournament, GM Tuan Minh Le faltered in the final round against Maghsoodloo, allowing Terry to catch up with a decisive win against GM Christopher Yoo. With the best tiebreaks, Terry claimed the top spot, followed closely by Maghsoodloo and Minh Le.

WFM Nivedita V C also shone brightly, winning her last five games to finish with seven points and take the women’s prize.

A New Era of Fast-Paced Chess

The 3 0 Thursday series, featuring three weekly Swiss tournaments for verified titled players, has quickly become a highlight in the chess calendar. With a combined prize fund of $3,000 each week, the event showcases the thrilling dynamics of rapid chess, where quick thinking and strategic depth collide.

As the chess community eagerly anticipates the next installment, one thing is clear: with players like Nakamura, Drygalov, and Terry leading the charge, the excitement of 3 0 Thursday is just beginning.