Chennai Grand Masters Chess: Vincent Keymer creates history, secures title with a round to spare; breaks into world Top 10
NEW DELHI: Vincent Keymer etched his name in the record books on Tuesday, clinching the Chennai Grand Masters 2025 title with a round to spare and becoming the first sole champion in the tournament's history.
The 20-year-old German prodigy, playing with the white pieces, secured a draw against Dutch GM Jorden van Foreest in Round 8, while other results sealed his triumph.
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Keymer's commanding run through a field packed with elite talent also propelled him into the world's Top 10 on the live rating list, marking a significant career milestone.
Poll
Which player do you think has the best chance of securing second or third place in the Chennai Grandmasters?
Arjun Erigaisi
Karthikeyan Murali
Both have equal chances
It's too close to call
Now in its third year, the Chennai Grandmasters has quickly established itself as India's strongest classical chess event.
Reflecting on his success, Keymer said: 'I am very happy with the tournament. Winning my games in the first rounds made me self-confident and helped me to be focused, concentrated, and calm. Entering the Top 10 in live rating is a milestone I have wanted to reach for a long time, and I am very glad that the hard work finally paid off.'
He added: 'Winning the tournament and breaking into the Top 10 at the same time is fantastic for me and truly special.
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However, the tournament will continue tomorrow. That is why I prefer to remain focused and keep the tension for the last round. I also really want to stay in the Top 10, meaning either drawing or winning tomorrow's game.'
Elsewhere in the Masters, all five Round 8 games ended in draws, leaving the fight for second and third wide open. Arjun Erigaisi and Karthikeyan Murali remain in contention, with the final day promising tense battles and rating stakes.
In the Challengers, GM Pranesh M moved to 6.5 points after defeating GM Harika Dronavalli, maintaining a narrow half-point lead over GM Abhimanyu Puranik and GM Leon Luke Mendonca. The last round will decide not just the winner's trophy, but also the coveted promotion to the 2026 Masters.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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