Indian grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa continued his impressive run at the 2026 Saint Louis Rapid &amp; Blitz, staying unbeaten and holding on to the sole lead heading into the tournament's final stretch. But the day wasn't without drama as a nerve-jangling pawn endgame against closest rival Javokhir Sindarov nearly cost him his advantage.<h2>Praggnanandhaa gets out of bind with a win</h2>Facing Sindarov, the reigning world championship challenger, Praggnanandhaa found himself staring at what looked like a completely lost pawn endgame. Rather than folding under pressure, the Indian dug in, refusing to concede and hunting for any practical chance the position could offer. His resolve, however, paid off. As the clock ticked down, Sindarov began to falter under time pressure and failed to find the precise sequence needed to convert his advantage. What should have been a full point for the Uzbek turned into a shared half-point, a result that could prove decisive by the time the tournament wraps up.It wasn't the first time this event that Sindarov has shown such resourcefulness under pressure, having escaped tough spots earlier in the week too. This time, though, the tables were turned, and it was Praggnanandhaa who benefited from his opponent's stumble.<h2>Praggnanadhaa gets into the final day with lead</h2>Despite the scare, Praggnanandhaa's overall performance across the week has been built on more than just survival instincts. His run has combined sharp tactical play, sound positional judgement and calm decision-making under pressure. Alongside his defensive heroics against Sindarov, he added further wins and a string of solid draws to remain unbeaten through the blitz rounds.Heading into the final day of action, Praggnanandhaa sits alone at the top of the standings. But with Sindarov, Wesley So and other elite contenders still within striking distance, the tournament remains far from decided. The concluding blitz rounds promise to be tense, with the Indian needing to hold his nerve one more time to seal the title.

Facing Sindarov, the reigning world championship challenger, Praggnanandhaa found himself staring at what looked like a completely lost pawn endgame. Rather than folding under pressure, the Indian dug in, refusing to concede and hunting for any practical chance the position could offer.

Indian grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa continued his impressive run at the 2026 Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz, staying unbeaten and holding on to the sole lead heading into the tournament's final stretch. But the day wasn't without drama as a nerve-jangling pawn endgame against closest rival Javokhir Sindarov nearly cost him his advantage. Praggnanandhaa gets out of bind with a win Facing Sindarov, the reigning world championship challenger, Praggnanandhaa found himself staring at what looked like a completely lost pawn endgame. Rather than folding under pressure, the Indian dug in, refusing to concede and hunting for any practical chance the position could offer. His resolve, however, paid off. As the clock ticked down, Sindarov began to falter under time pressure and failed to find the precise sequence needed to convert his advantage. What should have been a full point for the Uzbek turned into a shared half-point, a result that could prove decisive by the time the tournament wraps up. It wasn't the first time this event that Sindarov has shown such resourcefulness under pressure, having escaped tough spots earlier in the week too. This time, though, the tables were turned, and it was Praggnanandhaa who benefited from his opponent's stumble. Praggnanadhaa gets into the final day with lead Despite the scare, Praggnanandhaa's overall performance across the week has been built on more than just survival instincts. His run has combined sharp tactical play, sound positional judgement and calm decision-making under pressure. Alongside his defensive heroics against Sindarov, he added further wins and a string of solid draws to remain unbeaten through the blitz rounds. Heading into the final day of action, Praggnanandhaa sits alone at the top of the standings. But with Sindarov, Wesley So and other elite contenders still within striking distance, the tournament remains far from decided. The concluding blitz rounds promise to be tense, with the Indian needing to hold his nerve one more time to seal the title.

Facing Sindarov, the reigning world championship challenger, Praggnanandhaa found himself staring at what looked like a completely lost pawn endgame. Rather than folding under pressure, the Indian dug in, refusing to concede and hunting for any practical chance the position could offer.

Praggnanandhaa survives Sindarov scare, keeps St Louis lead intact heading into final day

Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov has won the men's Candidates tournament with one round to spare. The 20-year-old Uzbek beat Dutch player Anish Giri to move to 9 and a half points with one round to spare. Sindarov played a 58-move draw with Giri on Tuesday (Apr 14) in Cyprus to win the coveted tournament. He'll now challenge India's Gukesh Dommaraju for the world title in November later this year. This would be second time, that too back-to-back, with two Asian players fighting for the World Championship title. Two years ago, Gukesh beat Singapore's Ding Liren to become the youngest world champion in history.<h2>Sindarov wins Candidates to set up world title match with Gukesh</h2>Sindarov was emphatic throughout the eight-men double round-robin tournament, winning six and drawing seven of 13 games so far. He has one more game left but that is just a formality before he is officially crowned Candidates champion. "After he exchanged queens [20 Qxa6] ... I didn’t have any pressure,” Sindarov said after the game. “I felt very comfortable during the game.” Sindarov will play China’s Wei Yi in a dead rubber on Wednesday to cap off a memorable tournament.<h2>How much prize money for Candidates winner Sindarov?</h2>The Uzbek will get $82,500 from a $825,000 pool of prize money. He will also get $5,895 for each point scored in the tournament with his current tally at 9.5 points."If you asked me this question a year ago, I would have never believed this,” Sindarov said about his win. "But in the last year I’ve really improved my chess. I’m very happy with my chess skills. I will try to play better and better."<h2>Sindarov vs Gukesh for World Champion</h2>Sindarov will now face D Gukesh for the world title in best-of-14 tournament, dates for which are yet to be announced. "He’s the youngest champion in history and of course one of the best players in the world," Sindarov said about his world title opponent. "He has a lot of strong skills and it will be a very exciting match. He has a very good team. What can I say, I just wish him good luck."

 The 20-year-old Uzbek beat Dutch player Anish Giri to move to 9 and a half points with one round to spare. Sindarov played a 58-move draw with Giri on Tuesday (Apr 14) in Cyprus to win the coveted tournament. He'll now challenge India's Gukesh for the world title in November later this year.

Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov has won the men's Candidates tournament with one round to spare. The 20-year-old Uzbek beat Dutch player Anish Giri to move to 9 and a half points with one round to spare. Sindarov played a 58-move draw with Giri on Tuesday (Apr 14) in Cyprus to win the coveted tournament. He'll now challenge India's Gukesh Dommaraju for the world title in November later this year. This would be second time, that too back-to-back, with two Asian players fighting for the World Championship title. Two years ago, Gukesh beat Singapore's Ding Liren to become the youngest world champion in history. Sindarov wins Candidates to set up world title match with Gukesh Sindarov was emphatic throughout the eight-men double round-robin tournament, winning six and drawing seven of 13 games so far. He has one more game left but that is just a formality before he is officially crowned Candidates champion. "After he exchanged queens [20 Qxa6] ... I didn’t have any pressure,” Sindarov said after the game. “I felt very comfortable during the game.” Sindarov will play China’s Wei Yi in a dead rubber on Wednesday to cap off a memorable tournament. How much prize money for Candidates winner Sindarov? The Uzbek will get $82,500 from a $825,000 pool of prize money. He will also get $5,895 for each point scored in the tournament with his current tally at 9.5 points. "If you asked me this question a year ago, I would have never believed this,” Sindarov said about his win. "But in the last year I’ve really improved my chess. I’m very happy with my chess skills. I will try to play better and better." Sindarov vs Gukesh for World Champion Sindarov will now face D Gukesh for the world title in best-of-14 tournament, dates for which are yet to be announced. "He’s the youngest champion in history and of course one of the best players in the world," Sindarov said about his world title opponent. "He has a lot of strong skills and it will be a very exciting match. He has a very good team. What can I say, I just wish him good luck."

&nbsp;The 20-year-old Uzbek beat Dutch player Anish Giri to move to 9 and a half points with one round to spare. Sindarov played a 58-move draw with Giri on Tuesday (Apr 14) in Cyprus to win the coveted tournament. He'll now challenge India's Gukesh for the world title in November later this year.

Javokhir Sindarov, 20, wins Candidates with one game to spare to set up world title clash vs Gukesh

Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov became the youngest FIDE World Cup 2025 champion after he defeated GM Wei Yi of China in the tiebreak here on Wednesday.&nbsp;The 19-year-old defeated Wei in the second Rapid Game in the tiebreak with black pieces to become the first Uzbek chess player to win the World Cup and take home a prize purse of $120,000 along with the newly-christined Viswanathan Anand Cup.&nbsp;The FIDE World Cup 2025 was played as a single-elimination knock-out tournament and witnessed 206 players from 82 countries aiming for glory in a competition and also three spots in the Candidates 2026.&nbsp;In the final, Sindarov played out quick draws in the two classical games against Wei and had banked on his Rapid skills to find a way to win against a player who did not lose a single classical game in the competition.&nbsp;Wei was once again solid with black pieces in the first tiebreak game and the only time engines showed that Sindarov had a chance to find a winning sequence was in the bishop-pawn endgame but his very next move brought the game back in balance.&nbsp;In the second Rapid Game, Sindarov started exerting pressure on Wei’s king side from the middle game and then pinned his opponent’s king with his queen doing the damage. The Chinese finally resigned after the 60th move and the Uzbek became the youngest player to win the World Cup.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;“Today, my plan was to stay solid whether it was 15-15 or 10-10 time control. In the second game, I felt that he was not confident and it was my time to take chances. My position was tricky and I even offered him a draw. But he decided to play for a win but had very little time and he missed my attack,” said Sindarov after the title triumph.&nbsp;Asked about how he felt about being the youngest World Cup champion, Sindarov said, “I am very happy about that. But in my view, it is just a start of my career. I want to first be 2750 player and then play many tournaments and play World Championships. But I am very happy to be here and I will try to play my best in the Candidates as well.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Sindarov also spoke about how playing in India has been quite fruitful for him and how India and Uzbekistan could be competing for a lot of honours in the future. “India seems to be bringing a lot of luck. Yes, last time when I was in India, I won the Olympiad. After three years, I have won the &nbsp;World Cup. I'm very happy.”&nbsp;“India has a lot of very good players and the younger generation is also coming up too fast. In the next 10 years we will be fighting a lot for Olympiads and many other tournaments,” he added.

The FIDE World Cup 2025 was played as a single-elimination knock-out tournament and witnessed 206 players from 82 countries aiming for glory in a competition and also three spots in the Candidates 2026.

Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov became the youngest FIDE World Cup 2025 champion after he defeated GM Wei Yi of China in the tiebreak here on Wednesday. The 19-year-old defeated Wei in the second Rapid Game in the tiebreak with black pieces to become the first Uzbek chess player to win the World Cup and take home a prize purse of $120,000 along with the newly-christined Viswanathan Anand Cup. The FIDE World Cup 2025 was played as a single-elimination knock-out tournament and witnessed 206 players from 82 countries aiming for glory in a competition and also three spots in the Candidates 2026. In the final, Sindarov played out quick draws in the two classical games against Wei and had banked on his Rapid skills to find a way to win against a player who did not lose a single classical game in the competition. Wei was once again solid with black pieces in the first tiebreak game and the only time engines showed that Sindarov had a chance to find a winning sequence was in the bishop-pawn endgame but his very next move brought the game back in balance. In the second Rapid Game, Sindarov started exerting pressure on Wei’s king side from the middle game and then pinned his opponent’s king with his queen doing the damage. The Chinese finally resigned after the 60th move and the Uzbek became the youngest player to win the World Cup. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes “Today, my plan was to stay solid whether it was 15-15 or 10-10 time control. In the second game, I felt that he was not confident and it was my time to take chances. My position was tricky and I even offered him a draw. But he decided to play for a win but had very little time and he missed my attack,” said Sindarov after the title triumph. Asked about how he felt about being the youngest World Cup champion, Sindarov said, “I am very happy about that. But in my view, it is just a start of my career. I want to first be 2750 player and then play many tournaments and play World Championships. But I am very happy to be here and I will try to play my best in the Candidates as well.” ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Sindarov also spoke about how playing in India has been quite fruitful for him and how India and Uzbekistan could be competing for a lot of honours in the future. “India seems to be bringing a lot of luck. Yes, last time when I was in India, I won the Olympiad. After three years, I have won the World Cup. I'm very happy.” “India has a lot of very good players and the younger generation is also coming up too fast. In the next 10 years we will be fighting a lot for Olympiads and many other tournaments,” he added.

The FIDE World Cup 2025 was played as a single-elimination knock-out tournament and witnessed 206 players from 82 countries aiming for glory in a competition and also three spots in the Candidates 2026.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Javokhir Sindarov crowned champion after tense tiebreak against Wei Yi

The FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 final between Grandmasters Wei Yi and Javokhir Sindarov will be decided in a tiebreak after both players played for a draw in the second game. Having drawn the opening match, the Chinese GM Wei Yi mirrored Sindarov's semi-final strategy against Nodirbek Yakubboev, resulting in another quick draw after 30 moves.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the third-place playoff between Andrey Esipenko and Nodirbek Yakubboev was a much more dynamic affair. Esipenko had taken the first game, and Yakubboev aimed to level the score by taking risks in the second. However, his aggressive play backfired by the 11th move, allowing the Russian GM to seize control of the game. Esipenko capitalised on the mistakes and forced Yakubboev to resign after 26 moves.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20-world-cup-2026-check-team-india-s-full-match-schedule-dates-stadium-venues-and-key-fixtures-1764082465626">ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Check team India’s full match schedule. Dates, stadium and key fixtures</a>&nbsp;“I’m thrilled to have secured a place in the Candidates,” Esipenko was quoted as saying after his victory. “It was a challenging match, especially at this stage. I couldn't calculate much and just focused on positioning my pieces. Winning the first game was crucial, as Yakubboev had to win the second to keep his chances alive.” Esipenko’s win ensures at least one Russian will be in the Candidates Tournament, while the World Cup final remains undecided with the tiebreaks on the horizon.&nbsp;On Monday (November 24), China’s GM Wei Yi delivered another steady performance with the black pieces, holding GM Javokhir Sindarov to a draw in the opening game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final. In the battle for third place, GM Andrey Esipenko prevailed over GM Nodirbek Yakubboev.&nbsp;Wei once again chose the Petrov Defence, encouraging Sindarov to push for imbalance in search of a win. The strategy nearly paid off for the Chinese grandmaster, who entered a bishop-and-pawn endgame with a slight edge. However, Sindarov navigated the complications accurately, and the players eventually agreed to a draw after 50 moves. In the third-place encounter, Yakubboev employed the Sicilian Defence but soon found himself in trouble during the middlegame, needing precise play to stay afloat.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Wei Yi and Sindarov set for tiebreak, Esipenko secures Candidates spot

The FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 final between Grandmasters Wei Yi and Javokhir Sindarov will be decided in a tiebreak after both players played for a draw in the second game. Having drawn the opening match, the Chinese GM Wei Yi mirrored Sindarov's semi-final strategy against Nodirbek Yakubboev, resulting in another quick draw after 30 moves. Meanwhile, the third-place playoff between Andrey Esipenko and Nodirbek Yakubboev was a much more dynamic affair. Esipenko had taken the first game, and Yakubboev aimed to level the score by taking risks in the second. However, his aggressive play backfired by the 11th move, allowing the Russian GM to seize control of the game. Esipenko capitalised on the mistakes and forced Yakubboev to resign after 26 moves. Also Read: ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Check team India’s full match schedule. Dates, stadium and key fixtures “I’m thrilled to have secured a place in the Candidates,” Esipenko was quoted as saying after his victory. “It was a challenging match, especially at this stage. I couldn't calculate much and just focused on positioning my pieces. Winning the first game was crucial, as Yakubboev had to win the second to keep his chances alive.” Esipenko’s win ensures at least one Russian will be in the Candidates Tournament, while the World Cup final remains undecided with the tiebreaks on the horizon. On Monday (November 24), China’s GM Wei Yi delivered another steady performance with the black pieces, holding GM Javokhir Sindarov to a draw in the opening game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final. In the battle for third place, GM Andrey Esipenko prevailed over GM Nodirbek Yakubboev. Wei once again chose the Petrov Defence, encouraging Sindarov to push for imbalance in search of a win. The strategy nearly paid off for the Chinese grandmaster, who entered a bishop-and-pawn endgame with a slight edge. However, Sindarov navigated the complications accurately, and the players eventually agreed to a draw after 50 moves. In the third-place encounter, Yakubboev employed the Sicilian Defence but soon found himself in trouble during the middlegame, needing precise play to stay afloat.

GM Wei Yi and GM Javokhir Sindarov draw again in World Cup final, heading to tiebreak. GM Esipenko defeats Yakubboev, secures spot in Candidates 2025

India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, Abhinav Bindra, made a special appearance at the FIDE World Cup 2025 and made the ceremonial first move in the opening game of the final between Chinese GM Wei Yi and GM Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan here on Monday.&nbsp;The 43-year-old, who bagged the 10m Air Rifle gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and gave every Indian sportsperson the belief that they can also aim for world glory, was in Goa to witness some top-quality chess action and also tried his hand at playing the sport that was invented in India by playing a couple of games with a FIDE official.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Even though Bindra retired as a player after the 2016 Rio Olympics, his dedication to sporting excellence has led to the formation of the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, which identifies and nurtures the country’s future sports stars with a focus on implementing Global Best Practices of sports science in the country.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the FIDE World Cup here, the former world champion expressed happiness that chess fans got an opportunity to watch so many top players in action thanks to AICF and FIDE’s decision to host the World Cup in the country after a gap of 23 years.&nbsp;Bindra also expressed the possibility of supporting the development of chess in the future, “I am quite sure that chess is just not played sitting down. It requires a bit of physical preparation. You can see a lot of people who require self-discipline, physically and mentally. Both of them are very resilient. So, if they react more to the sport itself, I would be happy to help them if there are any chess brands that are interested in it.”

Abhinav Bindra, who bagged the 10m Air Rifle gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and gave every Indian sportsperson the belief that they can also aim for world glory, was in Goa to witness some top-quality chess action.

India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, Abhinav Bindra, made a special appearance at the FIDE World Cup 2025 and made the ceremonial first move in the opening game of the final between Chinese GM Wei Yi and GM Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan here on Monday. The 43-year-old, who bagged the 10m Air Rifle gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and gave every Indian sportsperson the belief that they can also aim for world glory, was in Goa to witness some top-quality chess action and also tried his hand at playing the sport that was invented in India by playing a couple of games with a FIDE official. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Even though Bindra retired as a player after the 2016 Rio Olympics, his dedication to sporting excellence has led to the formation of the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, which identifies and nurtures the country’s future sports stars with a focus on implementing Global Best Practices of sports science in the country. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the FIDE World Cup here, the former world champion expressed happiness that chess fans got an opportunity to watch so many top players in action thanks to AICF and FIDE’s decision to host the World Cup in the country after a gap of 23 years. Bindra also expressed the possibility of supporting the development of chess in the future, “I am quite sure that chess is just not played sitting down. It requires a bit of physical preparation. You can see a lot of people who require self-discipline, physically and mentally. Both of them are very resilient. So, if they react more to the sport itself, I would be happy to help them if there are any chess brands that are interested in it.”

Abhinav Bindra, who bagged the 10m Air Rifle gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and gave every Indian sportsperson the belief that they can also aim for world glory, was in Goa to witness some top-quality chess action.

Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra takes a shot at chess at the FIDE World Cup

Chinese GM Wei Yi played another solid game with black pieces to hold GM Javokhir Sindarov to a draw in the opening game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final, while GM Andrey Esipenko defeated GM Nodirbek Yakubboev in the third place match here on Monday.&nbsp;In the first game of the final, Wei once again opted for Petrov's defence with black and made Sindarov take risks to look for a win.&nbsp;And Wei’s plan almost worked as the Chinese was in a slightly stronger position in the bishop-pawn end game. But Sindarov was alert to the challenges posed by his opponent and the two players agreed to a draw after 50 moves.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a> In the third-place play-off, GM Nodirbek Yakubboev opted for the Sicilian defence and had to dig himself out of a hole in the middle game.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Though he managed to equal the position with Esipenko, helping with some questionable choices, the Uzbekistan GM was definitely under time trouble as he had just three minutes left on the clock with more than 10 moves left to play to meet the time control in the end game.&nbsp;Esipenko, who had lost the semifinal tiebreak due to a blunder, kept his cool and forced Yakubboev to resign after 38 moves and will now only need to draw with black to assure himself a Candidates Spot.&nbsp;Earlier, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra made a special appearance at the FIDE World Cup 2025 and made the ceremonial first move in the opening game of the final between Chinese GM Wei Yi and GM Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan here on Monday.<h2>Results</h2>GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) drew with GM Wei Yi (CHN) 0.5:0.5 GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) bt GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) 1:0

In the third-place play-off, GM Nodirbek Yakubboev opted for the Sicilian defence and had to dig himself out of a hole in the middle game.

Chinese GM Wei Yi played another solid game with black pieces to hold GM Javokhir Sindarov to a draw in the opening game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final, while GM Andrey Esipenko defeated GM Nodirbek Yakubboev in the third place match here on Monday. In the first game of the final, Wei once again opted for Petrov's defence with black and made Sindarov take risks to look for a win. And Wei’s plan almost worked as the Chinese was in a slightly stronger position in the bishop-pawn end game. But Sindarov was alert to the challenges posed by his opponent and the two players agreed to a draw after 50 moves. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes In the third-place play-off, GM Nodirbek Yakubboev opted for the Sicilian defence and had to dig himself out of a hole in the middle game. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Though he managed to equal the position with Esipenko, helping with some questionable choices, the Uzbekistan GM was definitely under time trouble as he had just three minutes left on the clock with more than 10 moves left to play to meet the time control in the end game. Esipenko, who had lost the semifinal tiebreak due to a blunder, kept his cool and forced Yakubboev to resign after 38 moves and will now only need to draw with black to assure himself a Candidates Spot. Earlier, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra made a special appearance at the FIDE World Cup 2025 and made the ceremonial first move in the opening game of the final between Chinese GM Wei Yi and GM Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan here on Monday. Results GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) drew with GM Wei Yi (CHN) 0.5:0.5 GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) bt GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) 1:0

In the third-place play-off, GM Nodirbek Yakubboev opted for the Sicilian defence and had to dig himself out of a hole in the middle game.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Wei Yi holds Sindarov with black in first game of final; Esipenko beats Yakubboev

Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov and GM Wei Yi of China will be facing off in the finals of the FIDE World Cup 2025 after they won their respective semifinals via the tiebreak and also confirmed their Candidates Spot here on Sunday. Both the classical games in the two semifinals had ended in a draw and this meant that the rapid skills of all the players were to be tested in the tiebreak.&nbsp;Sindarov, who had ended the dream run of GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara in the quarterfinals, put himself in the driver’s seat to advance when he defeated Nodirbek Yakubboev in the first rapid game with black pieces.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lakshya-sen-wins-australian-open-super-500-ends-long-title-drought-1763898019725">Lakshya Sen wins Australian Open Super 500, ends long title drought</a>&nbsp;The 19-year-old forced Nordirbek to resign after 47 moves as he almost converted his c file pawn into a queen in a rook-pawn ending. He then comfortably drew the second game with white pieces in another rook-pawn ending despite his opponent trying to push for a win for 54 moves.&nbsp;In the second semi-final, Wei once again showed his command in the rapid games as he drew the first game with black pieces and then defeated GM Andrey Esipenko in 57 moves with white pieces.&nbsp;Wei, the highest ranked player left in the tournament, was clearly in trouble after move 55 as Esipenko had two more pawns than him in a rook-knight endgame.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-scenarios-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-as-lando-norris-closes-in-on-maiden-title-max-verstappen-las-vegas-grand-prix-1763882801761">F1 scenarios: Here's all you need to know as title race heads for crunch finish</a>&nbsp;But the Russian Grandmaster missed defending his rook a couple of moves to gain material advantage.&nbsp;Speaking about his win, Wei Yi said, “Biggest achievement of my chess career. I am very happy about it. I don’t know what would be the result today but I wanted to give my best today.&nbsp;In the final position in the second game, my opponent blundered a rook. Otherwise, black could have played for a win and I would have to play for a draw. This is a long tournament and may be he was tired.”&nbsp;While Sindarov and Wei will now play to decide who takes home the Viswanathan Anand Cup, Nodirbek and Esipenko will face-off for the third and final Candidates Spots.&nbsp;Results:GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) bt GM Nodirbek Yak&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ubboev (UZB) (2.5:1.5 aggregate) GM Wei Yi (China) bt GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) (2.5:1.5 aggregate)

While Sindarov and Wei will now play to decide who takes home the Viswanathan Anand Cup, Nodirbek and Esipenko will face-off for the third and final Candidates Spots.

Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov and GM Wei Yi of China will be facing off in the finals of the FIDE World Cup 2025 after they won their respective semifinals via the tiebreak and also confirmed their Candidates Spot here on Sunday. Both the classical games in the two semifinals had ended in a draw and this meant that the rapid skills of all the players were to be tested in the tiebreak. Sindarov, who had ended the dream run of GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara in the quarterfinals, put himself in the driver’s seat to advance when he defeated Nodirbek Yakubboev in the first rapid game with black pieces. Also Read - Lakshya Sen wins Australian Open Super 500, ends long title drought The 19-year-old forced Nordirbek to resign after 47 moves as he almost converted his c file pawn into a queen in a rook-pawn ending. He then comfortably drew the second game with white pieces in another rook-pawn ending despite his opponent trying to push for a win for 54 moves. In the second semi-final, Wei once again showed his command in the rapid games as he drew the first game with black pieces and then defeated GM Andrey Esipenko in 57 moves with white pieces. Wei, the highest ranked player left in the tournament, was clearly in trouble after move 55 as Esipenko had two more pawns than him in a rook-knight endgame. Also Read - F1 scenarios: Here's all you need to know as title race heads for crunch finish But the Russian Grandmaster missed defending his rook a couple of moves to gain material advantage. Speaking about his win, Wei Yi said, “Biggest achievement of my chess career. I am very happy about it. I don’t know what would be the result today but I wanted to give my best today. In the final position in the second game, my opponent blundered a rook. Otherwise, black could have played for a win and I would have to play for a draw. This is a long tournament and may be he was tired.” While Sindarov and Wei will now play to decide who takes home the Viswanathan Anand Cup, Nodirbek and Esipenko will face-off for the third and final Candidates Spots. Results: GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) bt GM Nodirbek Yak ubboev (UZB) (2.5:1.5 aggregate) GM Wei Yi (China) bt GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) (2.5:1.5 aggregate)

While Sindarov and Wei will now play to decide who takes home the Viswanathan Anand Cup, Nodirbek and Esipenko will face-off for the third and final Candidates Spots.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Javokhir Sindarov, Wei Yi seal Candidates spot after winning respective semifinals

Both the semifinals in the FIDE World Cup 2025 will head to a tiebreak after GM Nodirbek Yakubboev and GM Javokhir Sindarov played out yet another drab draw while GM Andrey Esipenko failed to breach the defence of Chinese GM Wei Yei here on Saturday. Just like in the first game, Wei Yi once again found himself in time pressure against Esipenko, this time with black pieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;But the Chinese, who is known for his calm demeanour under pressure, pulled himself out of the hole with some precise moves to make the time control.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-championship-leader-lando-norris-grabs-stressful-las-vegas-pole-1763796498475">Formula One: Championship leader Lando Norris grabs 'stressful' Las Vegas pole</a>&nbsp;With very little to play for in terms of a result, Esipenko offered a draw soon after. Though Wei did not take the offer immediately and tried to make inroads with his queen, it was quite clear that no other result was possible and decided to sign the peace pact after 37 moves.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fide-world-cup-2025-first-game-of-wei-yi-andrey-esipenko-nodirbek-abdusattorov-javokhir-sindarov-semifinals-end-in-a-draw-1763783193100">FIDE World Cup 2025: First game of Wei Yi-Esipenko, Nodirbek-Sindarov semifinals end in a draw</a>&nbsp;In the other semifinal, the second game between Nordirbek and Sindarov went the same way as the first as both the players were happy to play solid and safe chess till the mandatory 30 move threshold before agreeing for a draw.&nbsp;Results:<ul><li>GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) drew with GM Wei Yi (CHN) (1:1 aggregate)</li><li>GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) drew with GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) (1:1 aggregate)</li></ul>

The second game between Nordirbek and Sindarov went the same way as the first as both the players were happy to play solid and safe chess till the mandatory 30 move threshold before agreeing for a draw.

Both the semifinals in the FIDE World Cup 2025 will head to a tiebreak after GM Nodirbek Yakubboev and GM Javokhir Sindarov played out yet another drab draw while GM Andrey Esipenko failed to breach the defence of Chinese GM Wei Yei here on Saturday. Just like in the first game, Wei Yi once again found himself in time pressure against Esipenko, this time with black pieces. But the Chinese, who is known for his calm demeanour under pressure, pulled himself out of the hole with some precise moves to make the time control. Also Read - Formula One: Championship leader Lando Norris grabs 'stressful' Las Vegas pole With very little to play for in terms of a result, Esipenko offered a draw soon after. Though Wei did not take the offer immediately and tried to make inroads with his queen, it was quite clear that no other result was possible and decided to sign the peace pact after 37 moves. Also Read - FIDE World Cup 2025: First game of Wei Yi-Esipenko, Nodirbek-Sindarov semifinals end in a draw In the other semifinal, the second game between Nordirbek and Sindarov went the same way as the first as both the players were happy to play solid and safe chess till the mandatory 30 move threshold before agreeing for a draw. Results: GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) drew with GM Wei Yi (CHN) (1:1 aggregate) GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) drew with GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) (1:1 aggregate)

The second game between Nordirbek and Sindarov went the same way as the first as both the players were happy to play solid and safe chess till the mandatory 30 move threshold before agreeing for a draw.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Both semifinals advance to tiebreak after another day of draws

China’s GM Wei Yi and Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Yakubboev could not breach the defences of their respective opponents with white pieces as both the semi-finals of the FIDE World Cup 2025 end in draws here on Friday.&nbsp;While Nodirbek signed the truce pact with compatriot GM Javokhir Sindarov immediately after the mandatory 30 moves, Wei Yi and GM Andrey Esipenko had their chances but could not convert and ended up splitting the point after 33 moves.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Wei Yi, who had defeated India’s best hope GM Arjun Erigaisi in the quarterfinals, faced a rare variation of French defence from Esipenko and just like in the quarterfinals had some early advantage.&nbsp;But to Esipenko’s credit, the Russian born Grandmaster equalled the position quite well and it looked like the Chinese was coming under some time pressure.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;However, Wei managed to set up a three pronged attack with a rook, bishop and queen only for Esipenko to respond with a perfect defensive move to take the game towards a pawn endgame, when the two players agreed to draw.&nbsp;Result:GM Wei Yi (CHN) drew with GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) 0.5:0.5 GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) vs GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) 0.5:0.5 &nbsp;

While Nodirbek Yakubboev signed the truce pact with compatriot GM Javokhir Sindarov immediately after the mandatory 30 moves, Wei Yi and GM Andrey Esipenko had their chances but could not convert and ended up splitting the point after 33 moves.

China’s GM Wei Yi and Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Yakubboev could not breach the defences of their respective opponents with white pieces as both the semi-finals of the FIDE World Cup 2025 end in draws here on Friday. While Nodirbek signed the truce pact with compatriot GM Javokhir Sindarov immediately after the mandatory 30 moves, Wei Yi and GM Andrey Esipenko had their chances but could not convert and ended up splitting the point after 33 moves. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Wei Yi, who had defeated India’s best hope GM Arjun Erigaisi in the quarterfinals, faced a rare variation of French defence from Esipenko and just like in the quarterfinals had some early advantage. But to Esipenko’s credit, the Russian born Grandmaster equalled the position quite well and it looked like the Chinese was coming under some time pressure. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes However, Wei managed to set up a three pronged attack with a rook, bishop and queen only for Esipenko to respond with a perfect defensive move to take the game towards a pawn endgame, when the two players agreed to draw. Result: GM Wei Yi (CHN) drew with GM Andrey Esipenko (FIDE) 0.5:0.5 GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) vs GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) 0.5:0.5

While Nodirbek Yakubboev signed the truce pact with compatriot GM Javokhir Sindarov immediately after the mandatory 30 moves, Wei Yi and GM Andrey Esipenko had their chances but could not convert and ended up splitting the point after 33 moves.

FIDE World Cup 2025: First game of Wei Yi-Esipenko, Nodirbek-Sindarov semifinals end in a draw

The semifinal of the 2025 FIDE World Cup is all set for Friday (Nov 21) as the Uzbekistan duo Javokhir Sindarov and Nodirbek Yakubboev will cross paths for a place in the final. In what was a blockbuster quarterfinal round, India’s bid to win the Chess World Cup on home soil came to an end after Arjun Erigaisi exited in the last round. However, semifinal clashes won’t disappoint the chess fans as Sindarov and Yakubboev will look to entertain the fraternity.&nbsp;Ahead of the key clash, Javokhir Sindarov exclusively spoke to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on his journey. He also spoke on The Candidates as he now stands a win away from reaching the prestigious tournament set to be held in 2026.&nbsp;Question: What was the feeling like when you booked your place in the semifinal of the 2025 FIDE World Cup?It was a very hard match, a tough one as well, and all credit to my Martínez, who played very well. He was one of the strongest players on the roster, and I knew it was a tough quarterfinal match for me. However, I was prepared for it, although Martínez gave me some problems. To come through this stage, you need a lot of energy and despite losing the first game, I have done and reached the semis.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Question: What was the decisive moment in the match as you took pole position against Martinez?I got the feeling at one stage that my Martínez does not want to play against me in the endgames. I figured out that if I went with some equal end games or somewhere where I have overcome the pressure. I had the perfect formula and I figured out in the first game where I need to improve. Despite starting well, it is the endgame I started focusing on, as it helps me gain more advantage.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Question: Now that you are just a win away from reaching The Candidates, how does it affect your preparations and is that something which could distract you?I don’t want to take the pressure of playing in The Candidates yet. There is work to be done here and I solely want to focus on the World Cup. I am actually more focused on my next match, which is against my friend and international teammate Nodirbek Yakubboev.&nbsp;I hope both of us reach The Candidates, but overall, I am very happy and proud of what I have done and I don’t want to get carried away with The Candidates right now. For now, I am only going to focus on the semifinal against Yakubboev and not think of The Candidates.&nbsp;

Ahead of the FIDE World Cup semifinal clash, Javokhir Sindarov exclusively spoke to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on his journey. He also spoke on The Candidates as he now stands a win away from reaching the prestigious tournament set to be held in 2026.

The semifinal of the 2025 FIDE World Cup is all set for Friday (Nov 21) as the Uzbekistan duo Javokhir Sindarov and Nodirbek Yakubboev will cross paths for a place in the final. In what was a blockbuster quarterfinal round, India’s bid to win the Chess World Cup on home soil came to an end after Arjun Erigaisi exited in the last round. However, semifinal clashes won’t disappoint the chess fans as Sindarov and Yakubboev will look to entertain the fraternity. Ahead of the key clash, Javokhir Sindarov exclusively spoke to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on his journey. He also spoke on The Candidates as he now stands a win away from reaching the prestigious tournament set to be held in 2026. Question: What was the feeling like when you booked your place in the semifinal of the 2025 FIDE World Cup? It was a very hard match, a tough one as well, and all credit to my Martínez, who played very well. He was one of the strongest players on the roster, and I knew it was a tough quarterfinal match for me. However, I was prepared for it, although Martínez gave me some problems. To come through this stage, you need a lot of energy and despite losing the first game, I have done and reached the semis. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Question: What was the decisive moment in the match as you took pole position against Martinez? I got the feeling at one stage that my Martínez does not want to play against me in the endgames. I figured out that if I went with some equal end games or somewhere where I have overcome the pressure. I had the perfect formula and I figured out in the first game where I need to improve. Despite starting well, it is the endgame I started focusing on, as it helps me gain more advantage. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Question: Now that you are just a win away from reaching The Candidates, how does it affect your preparations and is that something which could distract you? I don’t want to take the pressure of playing in The Candidates yet. There is work to be done here and I solely want to focus on the World Cup. I am actually more focused on my next match, which is against my friend and international teammate Nodirbek Yakubboev. I hope both of us reach The Candidates, but overall, I am very happy and proud of what I have done and I don’t want to get carried away with The Candidates right now. For now, I am only going to focus on the semifinal against Yakubboev and not think of The Candidates.

Ahead of the FIDE World Cup semifinal clash, Javokhir Sindarov exclusively spoke to WION’s Aditya Pimpale and reflected on his journey. He also spoke on The Candidates as he now stands a win away from reaching the prestigious tournament set to be held in 2026.

Exclusive: Javokhir Sindarov focused on FIDE World Cup semis, Candidates qualification not in mind

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Exclusive: Sindarov focused on WC semis, Candidates qualification not in mind