Abdusattorov wins the 2025 XTX Markets London Chess Classic

Grandmaster Nodirbek Abdusattorov from Uzbekistan won the 2025 XTX Markets London Chess Classic with an incredible score of 7.5/9, a full two points clear of his nearest rival, Alireza Firouzja. Nikita Vitiugov completed the podium, on 5/9, and was the only other player to finish on a plus score. After a short draw in Round 1, Abdusattorov reeled off six victories in a row, one of the most impressive winning streaks of modern times, and at one stage looked to be likely to achieve a TPR of over 3000, before settling for further draws in the final two rounds.

The victory not only netted Abdusattorov the £25,000 winner’s cheque; it also looks likely to propelled him back into the world’s top ten when the new ratings list is published at the end of 2025. Nodirbek was also awarded the best game prize for his amazing victory against Vitiugov, which saw him leave a piece en prise for several moves in an endgame. When Nikita was eventually forced to accept the sacrifice, his position soon crumbled.

The tournament was held at the Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal Football Club. In the Super Rapid event played a few days later, GM Nikolas Theodorou scored a hugely impressive victory, winning the tournament with 9/10. Meanwhile, Indian star Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa finished in joint first place (with England’s Ameet Ghasi and Serbia’s Velimir Ivic) in the FIDE Open, ensuring he remained on top of the FIDE Circuit and qualifies for the World Championship Candidates Tournament in 2026.

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