Grandmaster (GM) Arjun Erigaisi has made history by becoming the first Indian player to win a game in the fourth edition of India’s prestigious classical chess tournament, the Chennai Grandmasters 2026. He achieved this remarkable feat by defeating American GM Hans Niemann at the Westin Chennai Velachery Hotel on Friday.
Arjun maintained pressure on Niemann after gaining an advantage in the middle game, ultimately cornering his opponent’s king. This strategic play led to Niemann conceding defeat after 43 moves.
The tournament features eight grandmasters competing in a round-robin format, with a prize pool of ₹7,500,000 and valuable FIDE circuit points at stake.
With this victory, Arjun now stands alone in second place with 2 points, just half a point behind GM Alireza Firouzja. The French player, who won the first two rounds, faced some challenges but managed to draw against GM Nihal Sarin after 53 moves while playing with the black pieces.
Meanwhile, chess influencer Sutharshun Asokan, known as ‘GoofyZenChess’ on Instagram, made the first move in the match between World Champion D. Gukesh and GM Dmitry Andreikin. The Indian player attempted to break through his opponent’s defense but settled for a draw after 54 moves, as only kings remained on the board.
M. Pranesh also shared points with GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov after just 27 moves due to a repetition, as it became clear that he had little chance of winning.
Results from Round 3:
– GM Arjun Erigaisi (2) defeated GM Hans Niemann (1).
– GM M Pranesh drew against GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov (1.5).
– GM D Gukesh (1) drew with Dmitry Andreikin (1.5).
– GM Nihal Sarin (1.5) drew with Alireza Firouzja (2.5).
Pairings for Round 4:
– GM Hans Niemann vs. GM Alireza Firouzja.
– GM Dmitry Andreikin vs. GM Nihal Sarin.
– GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov vs. GM D Gukesh.
– GM Arjun Erigaisi vs. GM M Pranesh.