The career-best ranking catapulted Arjun Erigaisi into the news headlines this year. Last June, he rose to World Number 4 in the FIDE ratings following his win against France’s Loic Travadon at the French Team Chess Championship 2024.
With the Chess Olympiad just about to get underway this month in Budapest and the highly awaited Global Chess League in London on October 3, Arjun exudes confidence and reaches for a thrilling chess season.
Arjun said, “I am preparing for a long journey as the Olympiad approaches. I am not preparing particularly for these events, but just following my usual general preparation.” His demeanor is all about adapting to the pressures that lie ahead.
He told Carlsen, “Last year I was in the same team as Magnus Carlsen. This time I’m paired with Vishy Anand, sir. I still remember following the 2013 World Championship Match as a fan. And after 10-11 years, I get to play with these legends. A huge delight.”.
Arjun shared his views on the first season that he played in Dubai: “Season one was thrilling for me. I am hugely excited and motivated for the second season. I hope to deliver a strong performance this time.”
He added, “Team chess tournaments are so few and so far between. And I truly relish every moment I get to play in them. The Global Chess League is special to me because it is the first major team event different from other team events such as the Olympiad or World Teams. Oftentimes, you don’t know most of your teammates personally, and that’s a unique opportunity to get to interact with new minds.”
This year, the venue moves to London, and that is exciting news to the chess fraternity. To Arjun, anticipation is even higher because he has never been to London.
“First trip to London. Hope to find some time to visit landmarks like the London Eye. On the chessboard, I do hope to catch some nice wins. As a team, win it all and as an individual, be at my best during the event.” – Praggnanandhaa.
Arjun is in most of his element, strategizing how things should work, and brings his excitement to the table. A full schedule or a set of expectations is just a complement to his focused pursuit of excellence as an individual and for his team.
As the countdown begins in London for the Global Chess League, the world will be watching Arjun Erigaisi and his teammates closely. Their performance will bring new excitement to the chess world. And the fans are eager to see how this dynamic tournament happens.
ANI
