Vidit Gujrathi secures victory in the Vugar Gashimov Memorial Chess tournament.

Indian grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi emerged victorious at the 2023 Vugar Gashimov Memorial Chess tournament on Monday, triumphing in the blitz games to surpass a competitive field in Gabala. On the tournament's final day, Vidit claimed the top spot, surpassing local favorites such as Nijat Abasov, Teimour Radjabov, and Shakhriyar Mamedyarov. Hosted by the Vugar Gashimov Foundation at the Gabala Garden hotel in Azerbaijan, the competition featured intense battles.

During the rapid time controls, Vidit secured second place, drawing seven games, losing one, and winning two matches, trailing behind Azerbaijan’s Aydin Suleymanli with 11 points in nine rounds. However, in the second round of blitz games, Vidit made a remarkable comeback, scoring 7/9 to clinch the title. He concluded the 10-player tournament with 22 points, narrowly leading over compatriot Arjun Erigaisi, who secured 21.5 points after 27 rounds of rapid and blitz games. Erigaisi is set to participate in an upcoming tournament in Chennai.

Expressing his joy on Twitter, Vidit stated, “Thrilled to make a comeback on the last day and win the Vugar Gashimov Memorial.” Vidit's recent success adds to his impressive achievements, including winning the FIDE Grand Swiss tournament at the Isle of Man. This victory not only boosted his confidence but also secured him a place in the esteemed eight-man FIDE Candidates tournament, aimed at determining a challenger to the World Champion, China’s Ding Liren.

Reflecting on his achievements, Vidit emphasized the significance of winning the FIDE Grand Swiss tournament, highlighting its impact on his confidence and journey as a player. He mentioned that the victory was particularly reassuring, as he had been facing discouragement and a lack of hope in his chess journey. Vidit also noted that his previous major tournament win was four years ago at the Biel Chess Festival in 2019.