Arjun Erigaisi's Stellar Year: From World No. 4 to Passionate Chess Tournaments

Arjun Erigaisi has had an impressive year, rising to World No. 4 after a victory in the French Team Chess Championship 2024. With the upcoming Chess Olympiad in Budapest and the Global Chess League in London, Erigaisi is enthusiastic about his busy chess season and confident in his preparations.

Arjun Erigaisi has been making headlines with a career-best ranking this year, catapulting to World No. 4 in the FIDE world ratings in June. He achieved this milestone after defeating France's Loic Travadon at the French Team Chess Championship 2024. With the Chess Olympiad kicking off in Budapest this month and the Global Chess League commencing in London on October 3, Erigaisi expressed his excitement and confidence about the demanding chess season ahead.

'Starting with the Olympiad, I have a long trip coming up, so I am not preparing specifically for any of these events, but I am sticking to my usual general preparation,' Erigaisi stated in a release from the Global Chess League. 'Last year, I was on the same team as Magnus Carlsen, and now I am on the same team as Vishy Anand, sir. Following the 2013 World Championship Match as a fan and then playing alongside them after 10-11 years is a huge delight,' he remarked.

Discussing his experiences from the inaugural Global Chess League season in Dubai, Erigaisi noted, 'Season one was a thriller for me. I am very excited and motivated for the second season and hope to deliver a strong performance this time.' He added, 'Team chess tournaments are rare, but I love them. The Global Chess League stands out because it provides a unique chance to bond with teammates you might not know personally.'

With the Global Chess League taking place in London, there is a palpable excitement among the chess community. Erigaisi's participation in London is particularly special as it marks his first visit to the British capital. 'It will be my first time in London. I hope to visit the London Eye and aim for some nice wins on the board. Our team's goal is to win it all, and I want to be at my absolute best,' he concluded. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)