In the Superbet rapid and blitz chess tournament, Wei Yi of China increased his lead by a significant 2.5 points, while R. Praggnanandhaa of India scored another impressive win over Magnus Carlsen.
On the first day of the blitz, Yi scored seven victories and an amazing 20.5 points, putting him in the lead to win the first leg of the Grand Chess Tour. With only eighteen points, Carlsen is well behind, mainly because Praggnanandhaa keeps winning against him.
A fierce competition for the crown is anticipated as Praggnanandhaa maintains a solid 14.5 points.
Arjun Erigaisi (14 points) and Duda Jan-Krzysztof (13 points) are not far behind. With 12.5 points, Nodirbek Abdusattorov is in sixth place. Carlsen’s claim that his nervous system gave out after his defeat by Praggnanandhaa serves to further emphasise the tension of the situation.
Wei Yi only gave up a draw to Carlsen throughout the day after coming back from a defeat to Gukesh. Unfortunately, Gukesh had difficulties and only managed to get 2.5 points. Arjun continued to be a strong competitor, winning matches against Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa.
With 20.5 points, Wei Yi continues to lead the quick segment, ahead of Carlsen (18), Praggnanandhaa (14.5), and Arjun Erigaisi (14.5).
