Exciting Day at the Cairns Cup 2024: Tan Zhongyi Takes Sole Lead

Former Women’s World Champion GM Tan Zhongyi took the lead at the Cairns Cup 2024 in St. Louis after scoring a quick 20-move victory over defending champion IM Anna Zatonskih. Tan now sits at the top of the standings with three points after four rounds, trailed closely by GMs Mariya Muzychuk and Harika Dronavalli on 2.5 points.

In another exciting match, Young IM Alice Lee secured the first American victory of the tournament by defeating former Women’s World Champion GM Alexandra Kosteniuk. The game was a thrilling battle that saw Lee fight back despite time pressure, ultimately emerging victorious.

The tournament has seen intense and fighting games, with no draw offers allowed during play and a unique time control of 120 minutes for the entire game with a 30-second increment from the first move. These rules have led to exciting and combative chess, keeping both players and spectators on the edge of their seats.

Round five of the Cairns Cup 2024 is set to begin on Monday, June 17, at 2 p.m. ET. Stay tuned for more thrilling chess action as the competition heats up in St. Louis.