Exciting Results at Cairns Cup 2024: Five Players in Contention for $50,000 First Prize
The Cairns Cup 2024 is heating up as the competition reaches its climax with two rounds to go. Four decisive results in round seven have shaken up the standings, with five players still in contention for the $50,000 first prize. GM Tan Zhongyi leads the event after defeating GM Elisabeth Paehtz, while Alexandra Kosteniuk snatched another win to move into clear second place.
GMs Mariya Muzychuk and Nana Dzagnidze also scored wins, giving themselves a shot at chasing down the leaders. With round eight set to start on Friday, June 21, at 2 p.m. ET, the tension is palpable as the players vie for the top spot.
Tan’s impressive win in round seven not only extended her lead but also saw her climb to the fourth spot in the live FIDE ratings, making her the fourth highest-rated women’s player in the world. With the top three players all Chinese, the prospect of them forming a formidable team at the 2024 Chess Olympiad looms large.
In other games, Dzagnidze bounced back into contention with a win over eight-time U.S. champion Irina Krush, while Kosteniuk’s unpredictable style led her to victory against Zatonskih. Muzychuk also secured a win over Lee, while Anna Muzychuk settled for a draw against Harika.
The 2024 Cairns Cup is proving to be one of the strongest women’s tournaments in the world, with a $200,000 prize fund up for grabs. As the competition intensifies, all eyes will be on the remaining rounds to see who will emerge victorious in this prestigious event.