Chess Sensation on Wall Street: Murzin Defeats the World’s Elite!

Eighteen-year-old Volodar Murzin shocked the chess world by winning the Rapid Championship in the iconic setting of Wall Street. The tournament featured thrilling games, record-breaking prizes, and a symbolic connection between chess strategy and the financial world.

Profile of Winners

1. GM Volodar Murzin

• Federation: Russia
• Rating: 2588
• Points: 10
• Year of Birth: 2006
• Prize: $100,000

2. GM Alexander Grischuk

• Federation: Russia
• Rating: 2675
• Points: 9.5
• Year of Birth: 1983
• Prize: $75,000

3. GM Ian Nepomniachtchi

• Federation: Russia
• Rating: 2758
• Points: 9.5
• Year of Birth: 1990
• Prize: $50,000

The Symbolism of Wall Street and the Tournament's Prestige

Cipriani Wall Street, a historic building in the heart of New York's financial district, provided a prestigious backdrop for the championship, highlighting the connection between chess strategy and the world of business and finance. This unique venue, known for its majestic architecture, added an exceptional ambiance to the tournament.

With a total prize fund of $1.5 million, the event underscored the growing significance of chess on the global stage. The popularity of rapid chess continues to rise, attracting top players from around the world.

During this year's FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship 2024 in New York, a significant controversy arose when Norwegian Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen was expelled from the tournament for violating the dress code.

Dress Code Incident

Carlsen, a five-time World Rapid Chess Champion, arrived for a game wearing jeans, which is against the International Chess Federation (FIDE) rules that prohibit jeans during official matches. The chief arbiter informed him of the violation, fined him $200, and requested that he change attire. Carlsen refused to change immediately, stating he would do so the following day. As a result, he was not paired for the ninth round and subsequently decided to withdraw from the tournament.

Magnus Carlsen's Response

Carlsen explained that he was rushing after a prior work meeting and overlooked his choice of pants, despite changing his shirt, jacket, and shoes. When asked to change immediately, he viewed it as a matter of principle and chose not to comply. In an interview with Norwegian television NRK, he said, "I'm tired of FIDE; I don't want to have anything to do with them. I apologize to all the fans; maybe it's a silly principle, but for me, it's not fun."

FIDE's Reaction and Other Players

FIDE emphasized that the dress code rules are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants. For instance, Russian Grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi was also fined for inappropriate footwear but changed after being notified and continued in the tournament.

Community and Fan Reactions

The chess community and fans had mixed reactions. Some supported Carlsen's decision to stand his ground, while others highlighted the importance of adhering to established rules to maintain the sport's integrity. On social media, some criticized the strictness of the dress code, while others stressed that rules should apply equally to all without exception.

This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the relevance and rigidity of dress code regulations in professional chess and how they should be enforced for top-tier players.

Open Rapid Final Standings | Top 30

Women Rapid Final Standings | Top 30