The first-ever Millionaire Chess tournament (MC#1) in 2014 made waves in the chess community with its massive prize fund and high-level competition. The Open section, which featured some of the strongest players in the world, was the highlight of the event. With a prize pool of $1 million, the tournament drew top-tier Grandmasters and rising stars alike, all vying for the prestigious title and the life-changing $100,000 grand prize. Here’s a look at the final standings of the Open section and the players who made it to the top.
The Format
The Millionaire Chess Open section was structured in a Swiss-system format, with players competing in nine rounds. This format ensured that even players with a loss or a draw could still stay in contention for the top spots, making for an exciting and unpredictable tournament. The games were played with a classical time control of 90 minutes per player, with a 30-second increment per move, allowing for deep thinking and preparation.
The Top Performers
The competition was fierce, with some of the best players from around the world fighting for the title. The tournament saw a strong showing from the U.S. and international chess giants, but in the end, the final standings were determined by both consistency and key victories in crucial rounds.
1. GM Wesley So (USA) – Champion
Wesley So, the young Filipino-American Grandmaster, had an outstanding performance throughout the tournament. So’s solid and strategic play, combined with his ability to handle high-pressure situations, helped him clinch the first place in the Open section. His performance in the final rounds was particularly impressive, securing him a spot in Millionaire Monday, where he defeated Le Quang Liem to win the coveted $100,000 prize.
So’s victory marked a significant milestone in his career, as it was his first major victory in a high-profile international event. His consistency and tactical brilliance set him apart, and his win was a testament to his growing reputation as one of the world’s top chess players.
2. GM Hikaru Nakamura (USA) – Runner-up
Hikaru Nakamura, one of the most well-known names in the chess world, was another standout in the MC#1 Open section. Despite not automatically qualifying for Millionaire Monday, Nakamura fought his way through the tournament, eventually earning his spot after a tough playoff against GM Wesley So. Nakamura’s dynamic and aggressive style, combined with his deep understanding of the game, made him a formidable opponent throughout the event.
While Nakamura finished as the runner-up in the Millionaire Chess Open, his performance solidified his place as one of the best chess players of his generation. His tactical flair and determination were on full display throughout the tournament, earning him widespread admiration from fans and fellow players.
3. GM Le Quang Liem (Vietnam) – Third Place
Le Quang Liem, a highly respected Grandmaster from Vietnam, also had an impressive showing in the tournament. Liem’s consistent play throughout the event kept him in the hunt for the top spots. His victory over GM Lenderman in the semifinals secured him a spot in the Millionaire Monday finale, where he would face Nakamura for the $100,000 prize.
Though he did not win the title, Liem’s strong performance in the Open section showed that he is one of the most capable players in the world, capable of competing with the best on any stage.
4. GM Lenderman (USA) – Fourth Place
Another notable performer in the Open section was GM Alexander Lenderman. Though he ultimately finished in fourth place, Lenderman’s journey to the semifinals was full of impressive victories, including some key wins in the earlier rounds of the tournament. His ability to navigate complex positions and make precise moves under time pressure earned him respect and admiration from the chess community.
Lenderman’s strong finish at MC#1 was a testament to his skill and potential, and he remains one of the prominent figures in the U.S. chess scene.
The Significance of the Tournament
The final standings of the MC#1 Open section reflect the high level of competition and the tremendous talent present at the event. The Millionaire Chess tournament’s generous prize fund and prestigious format attracted the best players from around the world, and the competition was fierce from start to finish. The event was a turning point in the chess world, helping to elevate the profile of chess tournaments globally.
For players like Wesley So, Hikaru Nakamura, and Le Quang Liem, the Millionaire Chess Open not only provided a platform to showcase their skills but also set the stage for their future successes in the world of elite chess.
The final standings of the MC#1 Open section were a testament to the fierce competition and high-caliber play that defined the event. Wesley So’s victory in the tournament’s inaugural year, combined with strong performances from players like Nakamura, Liem, and Lenderman, established Millionaire Chess as a premier event in the chess calendar. As chess continues to grow in popularity and prestige, tournaments like Millionaire Chess will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the game.