Arjun Erigaisi wins WR Chess Masters Cup, defeats France's Maxime Vachier-Lagrave

Indian Grand Master Arjun Erigaisi has won the 2024 WR Chess Masters Cup defeating Maxime Vachier-Lagrave of France, earning him the top prize of 20,000 euros and 27.84 FIDE circuit points.

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Arjun could not cross 2800 mark

However, Arjun Erigaisi could not cross the 2800 mark despite the win as his French opponent forced two consecutive draws in classical games. Erigaisi knew he had to win in classical chess on the final day to cross the 2800 mark for the first time in his career. Vachier-Lagrave had drawn all his classical games but won three out of three Armageddons.

Arjun Erigaisi, who is ranked world number four with a live rating of 2796.1, defeated compatriots Vidit Gujrathi and R. Praggnanandhaa on his way to winning the title.

Arjun played for win

In the first classical game against Vachier-Lagrave, Arjun equalised well with the Black pieces and was never in trouble. In the second game, he created a chaotic position with the White pieces, and was slightly better - but Vachier-Lagrave played very well and found counterplay.

Once Arjun understood the position was shifting, he pulled the brakes at the perfect moment and drew the game. By showing his mature game, he played for a win instead of chasing the 2800 mark.

Arjun had six minutes and 58 seconds in Armageddon, while Vachier-Lagrave had 10 minutes. He showed very practical play with the Black pieces- playing fast the entire game, making important decisions, and never letting the control go out of his hands. Vachier-Lagrave had to push for a win, and that gave Arjun chances - he won the game, the match and the tournament.

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Arjun and Gukesh made history

Earlier this month Erigaisi and Gukesh made history by entering the top five in the chess world ranking as India for the first time had two players in the top five. The 21-year-old Erigaisi was also India’s best player at the Chess Olympiad recently as the men’s team won the Open section gold for the first time. He secured a total of 10 out of 11 points, winning nine and drawing two games on Board 3.

Apart from the men’s team, the women’s team also won the gold medal.