Did India’s Journey in the FIDE World Cup 2025 End in the Quarterfinals Against Wei Yi?
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Synopsis
The FIDE World Cup 2025 witnessed a gripping quarterfinal showdown where India’s GM Arjun Erigaisi faced off against China’s GM Wei Yi. After two drawn classical games, the tiebreaks tested Arjun’s skill but ultimately resulted in a heartbreaking exit for India, raising questions about the future of Indian chess on the global stage.
Key Takeaways
- Arjun Erigaisi was the last Indian player in the FIDE World Cup 2025.
- Both classical games against Wei Yi ended in draws.
- The first tiebreak game featured Arjun using the French Defense.
- Wei Yi ultimately won the second tiebreak game, eliminating Arjun.
- Esipenko and Sindarov advanced to the semifinals.
Panaji, Nov 19 (NationPress) India’s participation in the FIDE World Cup 2025 concluded on Wednesday as GM Arjun Erigaisi faced defeat against GM Wei Yi from China in the quarterfinal tiebreak here. Arjun was the sole Indian remaining in the tournament at this stage, and following two drawn classical games, the tiebreak was expected to be a challenging affair.
The 22-year-old from Warangal opted for the French Defense during the first tiebreak game with black pieces, and it seemed that the Indian was in a precarious position during the middle game. However, an error by Wei on the 27th move, opting for a somewhat safe move, enabled Arjun to stage a comeback, leading the game to a draw after 66 moves.
Having lost the quarterfinal tiebreak in the 2023 edition against compatriot Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, Erigaisi needed to crack Wei’s Petrov Defense to secure a win in the second game with white pieces.
Nevertheless, the Chinese player remained steadfast, seizing a winning advantage by move 28. Aware that he was fighting for his survival, Arjun kept pushing, but Wei ultimately dashed India’s hopes after 79 moves by promoting his C pawn to a queen, forcing Arjun to resign.
“I am thrilled and delighted to have overcome such a formidable opponent. In the first game, I had several opportunities in the middle and end game, but I failed to capitalize. In the second game, he played some risky moves in his quest to win, and I recognized that I had chances to seize victory,” commented Wei post-match.
In other tiebreak action, GM Andrey Esipenko triumphed over GM Sam Shankland in the second stage of their tiebreak, advancing to the semifinals. Esipenko and Shankland had each won a game in the initial set of rapid matches.
However, in the second set, Esipenko first defeated Shankland with black and then capitalized on his advantage to win again with white, setting the stage for a semifinal showdown against Wei Yi. GM Javokhir Sindarov secured the last semifinal spot after overcoming Martinez Alcantara Jose Eduardo in the second set of tiebreaks.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the immense talent and potential within our chess community. While Arjun Erigaisi's journey may have ended in the quarterfinals, his resilience and skills showcase the bright future ahead for Indian chess. We must continue to support our players as they strive for excellence in international competitions.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the last Indian player in the FIDE World Cup 2025?
GM Arjun Erigaisi was the last Indian player competing in the FIDE World Cup 2025.
What was the result of the tiebreak between Arjun Erigaisi and Wei Yi?
Arjun Erigaisi lost to Wei Yi in the quarterfinal tiebreak of the FIDE World Cup 2025.
How did the first tiebreak game between Arjun and Wei end?
The first tiebreak game ended in a draw after 66 moves.
What opening did Arjun choose in the first tiebreak game?
Arjun opted for the French Defense in the first tiebreak game.
Which players advanced to the semifinals alongside Wei Yi?
GM Andrey Esipenko and GM Javokhir Sindarov advanced to the semifinals.
