Grischuk Triumphs at Tata Steel India Blitz
Author: Maria Fragaki
GM Alexander Grischuk showcased his blitz brilliance at the 2023 Tata Steel Chess India Open, clinching the title with 12 points. A relentless display of consistency, Grischuk reaffirmed his passion for blitz, while Nodirbek Abdusattorov’s spirited performance secured the second spot in a highly competitive field.
In a display of unwavering prowess and an affinity for blitz chess, GM Alexander Grischuk once again confirmed his status as a specialist in this fast-paced format during the 2023 Tata Steel Chess India Open Blitz. Grischuk’s steady performance over the second and final day secured him the coveted title, amassing a total score of 12 points from 18 games. Viswanathan Anand, himself a legendary figure in the world of chess, highlighted the key to Grischuk’s enduring success in blitz, stating, “Alexander likes blitz, most of all.”
GMs Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu concluded in second and third place respectively, both accumulating 11 points. A promising contender at the outset, GM Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, faced a challenging second day. His struggles began with four consecutive losses, and he struggled to regain his footing, ultimately experiencing a decline from his initial strong position.
The way to the victory
Trailing Praggnanandhaa by a mere half-point after the first day, Grischuk exhibited unwavering consistency throughout the subsequent day. He notched four victories, secured three draws, and endured a solitary loss, accumulating a total of 5.5 points for the day and ultimately clinching the title with 12 points. In contrast, Praggnanandhaa’s performance on the final day included three wins, three draws, and three losses, resulting in a 4.5-point tally, and an overall score of 11 points.
Vidit, who had initially occupied the second position after the first day, faced a challenging day, recording six losses along with two draws and a single win.
However, the standout performer of the day was Abdusattorov, who secured six wins, two draws, and a lone loss. His impressive number of victories even posed a credible threat to Grischuk’s bid for the title. Ultimately, he finished on par with Praggnanandhaa at 11 points, securing the second position.
Grischuk commended the relentless fighting spirit displayed by Abdusattorov and the rising young talents, stating, “It is great that all these youngsters have amazing fighting spirit. When I was young, we used to be afraid of Garry Kasparov, Viswanathan Anand, Vladimir Kramnik... They are not afraid of anyone. Maybe, they are just slightly afraid of Magnus Carlsen!”
At the end of the day, the players had their time with the chess fans!
