Arjun Erigaisi: On the Verge of Breaking India’s 2800 Rating Barrier
Arjun Erigaisi, India’s No. 1 chess player and current world No. 4, is making waves in the chess world with his incredible performance at the 45th Chess Olympiad. With six victories in as many games, Arjun is not only leading the Indian team to dominance but is also on the verge of becoming the second Indian, after the legendary Viswanathan Anand, to cross the prestigious 2800 rating mark. This achievement would place him among the elite players in chess history.
Arjun’s Unstoppable Form at the Chess Olympiad
The ongoing 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest has showcased Arjun Erigaisi’s exceptional talent. In the sixth round, Arjun added another feather to his cap by defeating Sjugirov Sanan, a Russian-turned-Hungarian Grandmaster. This hard-fought win further extended his unbeaten streak, helping the Indian men’s team secure their sixth consecutive victory. His tactical mastery and ability to turn complex positions in his favor have made him one of the most formidable players in the tournament.
Arjun’s ability to remain calm under pressure has been critical to India’s success. Playing alongside stars like D Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi, Arjun has been a beacon of consistency. The Indian team currently stands as the sole leader of the Olympiad, with 12 points, having defeated powerhouses like Azerbaijan and Hungary along the way.
A Future Chess Giant: Closing in on 2800
What sets Arjun apart is not just his current form but the consistency he has maintained over the years. With his stellar performance at the Olympiad, Arjun is edging closer to crossing the 2800 rating—a milestone that only one Indian, Viswanathan Anand, has achieved. Achieving this would solidify Arjun’s place among the best chess players in the world and signal the arrival of a new era for Indian chess.
Magnus Carlsen, the reigning world champion, has already taken note of Arjun’s unpredictable and aggressive playing style, calling him a “mad man on the chess board.” This high praise from Carlsen highlights the level of skill Arjun possesses and the respect he commands from his peers.
A Strong Indian Team Leading the Charge
The Indian chess team has been one of the standout performers at the Chess Olympiad, with all players contributing to the team’s unbeaten run. D Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, and Arjun Erigaisi have formed a formidable unit, consistently outplaying their opponents. Their combined efforts have taken India to the top of the standings, ahead of countries like Vietnam, China, and Iran.
In the sixth round, Vidit Gujrathi’s victory over Benjamin Gledura and D Gukesh’s easy draw against Richard Rapport added to India’s 3-1 victory over Hungary. Praggnanandhaa also held former chess great Peter Leko to a draw, showcasing the depth and talent in the Indian squad. The team’s strong performances have positioned them as serious contenders for the championship title.
The Women’s Team Also Shining
Not only is the Indian men’s team excelling, but the women’s team is also making its mark. Divya Deshmukh’s victory over Elena Danielian was crucial in securing an early lead against Armenia in the sixth round. With consistent performances from the women’s team, India is proving to be a force to be reckoned with in both sections of the tournament.
A New Era for Indian Chess
Arjun Erigaisi’s rapid ascent in the world of chess is part of a broader resurgence of Indian chess, with young players making a mark on the international stage. With his current form, Arjun is set to become one of the youngest players in history to cross the 2800 rating. If he continues on this trajectory, India will have another chess legend in the making, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand.
As the Chess Olympiad progresses, all eyes will be on Arjun and the Indian team as they aim for victory. Arjun’s potential to break the 2800 rating is not just a personal achievement but a symbol of India’s growing dominance in the world of chess.
