The Armageddon finalists
Author: Maria Fragaki
The chess world is abuzz with anticipation as the Armageddon Championship Series: Grand Finale draws near. Set to unfold in the vibrant city of Berlin, Germany, this event promises a thrilling week filled with intense battles, strategic genius, and heart-pounding drama. Let’s meet the finalists!
Wesley So (blitz rating: 2765)
Wesley So, the Filipino-American super grandmaster, is a chess legend who began his journey at just nine years old. By 14, he became the ninth youngest Grandmaster in history with his rating skyrocketing at 2822 in March 2017, making him the world’s number-two player, only behind Magnus Carlsen. He’s a multiple national champion and won prestigious titles like the Fischer Random World Chess Championship in 2019, the 2022 Chesscom Global Championship and the 2023 World Chess Armageddon: Americas.
Aside from chess, So enjoys reading, swimming, and dreams of having his own farm someday.
GM Gukesh D.
Indian chess sensation Dommaraju Gukesh, a rising prodigy, achieved grandmaster status in 2019, missing Sergey Karjakin’s record by just 17 days. In April 2022, he soared into the top 100 rankings. Remarkably, Gukesh secured double wins against Vishy Anand shortly after his SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz debut and became the youngest player to surpass the 2750 rating mark, ranking World No.11. By August of this year, he overtook Vishy Anand in live ratings, officially claiming India’s No.1 spot in September and reaching World No.8.
Gukesh places a strong emphasis on mental well-being, incorporating yoga and meditation into his routine. Additionally, he finds solace in Indian music. His ultimate aspiration is to ascend to the pinnacle of chess as the world’s best player.
GM Richard Rapport
Richard Rapport’s chess journey is a thrilling saga akin to the drama of an Armageddon match. In 2022, his remarkable performance in the FIDE Grand Prix earned him a coveted spot in the prestigious FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament, a true testament to his prowess. Beyond his individual achievements, Rapport’s resourcefulness and innovative style have contributed significantly to World Champion Ding Liren’s success on the board.
Intriguingly, Rapport’s life off the chessboard is just as fascinating. He cherishes his marriage, indulges in a passion for cinema, enjoys social interactions, and finds solace in leisurely strolls. This multifaceted chess maestro embodies both strategic brilliance and a zest for life beyond the 64 squares.
GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov
Nodirbek’s chess journey ignited in 2012 when he clinched the World Champion title under 8, a pivotal moment that solidified his passion for the game. Fast forward to 2021, and he left an indelible mark by becoming the youngest-ever World Rapid Chess Champion, surpassing even the legendary Magnus Carlsen’s records. The year 2022 marked another milestone as he led Uzbekistan to victory at the 44th Chess Olympiad, securing an individual silver medal for his outstanding contributions.
Away from the chessboard, Nodirbek’s love for sports shines through, with a particular fondness for football and swimming. His dedication to both chess and athleticism embodies a well-rounded passion for excellence.
IM Bibisara Assaubayeva
Bibisara’s got some serious accolades under her belt, including back-to-back victories as the Women’s World Blitz Champion in 2021 and 2022! With a commanding 14/17 in 2021 and an impressive 13/17 on her home turf in 2022, she’s a force to be reckoned with!
But here’s the twist—she’s been a game master since age 4, and even in her early years, she was unstoppable in card games! Plus, she’s got some slick moves from her 5-year stint in rhythmic gymnastics, where she was a two-time city champion! When she’s not conquering chessboards, Bibisara dives into detective stories as a real-life detective, and enjoys quality time with her family, friends, and her trusty companion, Gucci.
GM Sam Shankland
Sam’s chess journey is magnificent: He snagged the U.S. Chess Championship crown in 2018, breaking the 2700 rating barrier for the first time! He’s been a powerhouse on the chessboard, winning gold medals and leading the charge for Team USA at the Chess Olympiads.
But Sam’s not just about chess moves! He’s got a soft spot for furry friends, survived the jungle in the “Kicking and Screaming” reality show, and knows how to keep his cool in the wild!
GM Humpy Koneru
Koneru’s chess journey is nothing short of legendary, starting from her first World Title U10 in France in 1997. She’s been making waves ever since, claiming the Women’s World Rapid Championship in 2019, and taking the silver at the Women’s World Blitz Championship in 2023!
Before she rocked the chess world, Koneru held the record as the youngest woman to achieve the title of GM, ranked as World No.2 among women, and collected over 15 awards, including the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2021 and the Sportstar Aces Award 2021: Sportswoman of the Decade (non-Olympic sport)!
Besides chess, Koneru is a devoted mother, a Bollywood enthusiast, and a lover of shorter time-formats because they bring her more happiness!
GM Jan-Krzysztof Duda
Duda’s chess journey is legendary: from being the U10 World Chess Champion to seizing the 2018 Polish Championship, and claiming the 2021 FIDE World Cup title, earning him a spot in the prestigious 2022 Candidates Tournament. This guy’s a chess sensation! ♟️
But he’s not just about chess mastery. Jan is a top-notch swimmer, tennis pro, ping pong wizard, and a running enthusiast. Plus, he’s got a soft spot for James Bond movies!
https://twitter.com/theworldchess/status/1669643369180549120wor
Schedule
Day 1. September 14, 19:00 CEST
Gukesh D — Wesley So
Jan-Krzysztof Duda — Sam Shankland
Day 2. September 15, 19:00 CEST
Nodirbek Abdusattorov — Richard Rapport
Humpy Koneru — Bibisara Assaubayeva
Day 3. September 16, 19:00 CEST
Day 4. September 17, 19:00 CEST
Day 5. September 18, 19:00 CEST
Day 6. September 19, 19:00 CEST
Day 7. September 20, 19:00 CEST
Mark your calendar for September 14-20, and tune in daily at 19:00 CEST. Don’t miss this electrifying chess extravaganza!
