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A simul with a chess legend

Former World Champion Viswanathan Anand took on 11 players in a simul, celebrating one of chess’ finest traditions

Photo by Anna Shtourman
Every big chess event often features additional engagements – from lectures by players to training seminars for arbiters, to – the most bellowed event of all for the public – simuls with famous players.

In Astana, the great Indian and World chess master, former World Champion Viswanathan Anand took on 11 eager contestants in a simul.

This beloved tradition of chess events always gets hearts racing, and the atmosphere was electric as Anand faced his challengers.

While it’s a rare treat to face a living legend over the chess board, one player will have particularly fond memories of the event: Alexander Kozubsky draw with black pieces(!) against one of the strongest chess players in history!
Photo by Anna Shtourman

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On the same day, Vishy Anand gave an interview where he expressed his thoughts on the match and chances of the opponents. He is "leaning slightly towards Ian Nepomniachtchi".
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