Hans Niemann beats Carlsen to cross 2700 at the Sinquefield Cup 2022
The lowest-rated player in the Sinquefield Cup 2022, Hans Niemann, outplayed the World Champion Magnus Carlsen with the black pieces in Round 3 to cross 2700 in live ratings and grab sole lead of the tournament. That happens well… never. At least since 2011.
“Chess speaks for itself” Hans Niemann stated after beating Magnus Carlsen at Crypto Cup 2022 in Miami.
In less than a month, USA’s top junior beat the World Champion twice, and this time in classical chess! Niemann replaced Richard Rapport at the tournament when he withdrew due to covid-related restrictions, and so far it’s working amazingly. The young GM started the Sinquefield Cup with a draw against Levon Aronian, he then beat Shakhriyar Mamedyarov and in Round 3 he won against Carlsen to cross 2700 in live ratings and become the sole leader of the tournament.
Even if Carlsen’s reputation on the endgames is huge, Niemann managed to outplay him, with the black pieces! It was a rook and bishop vs rook and knight endgame, which was so close to draw many times, but both players weren’t satisfied with that result. After an inaccuracy by Carlsen, Niemann grabbed the opportunity and created a winning position to eventually take his most precious point so far!
