In an electrifying showdown that captivated Go enthusiasts, Lee Chang-ho, a 9-dan professional, triumphed at the inaugural Senior World Go Open, claiming the title of the first champion on April 16, 2025. The final match took place at the BadukTV studio of the Korea Baduk Association in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, where Lee faced off against fellow 9-dan professional Yoo Chang-hyuk.
After a grueling battle that spanned 304 moves, Lee emerged victorious with a margin of 2집반 (two and a half points). The match was not only a test of skill but also a display of the rich history and rivalry between these two legendary players. Early on, Yoo appeared to have the upper hand, but the tide turned dramatically as the game progressed into the mid-game.
As the match unfolded, the win probability graph fluctuated wildly, reflecting the intense competition between the two masters. Each player exchanged blows in a back-and-forth contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, it was Lee who solidified his lead during the endgame, securing the championship with a final score that left fans buzzing.
Reflecting on his victory, Lee Chang-ho expressed his gratitude and respect for his opponent. "Yoo Chang-hyuk is always a difficult opponent, and I thought I needed to play hard. I believe luck was on my side today," he said. He further shared his passion for Go, stating, "There are moments when I feel a bit tired of the game, but I feel fortunate to have been able to play Go since I was young. I will continue to enjoy it and try to play my best."
Lee's victory not only earned him a trophy but also a prize of 30 million won, while runner-up Yoo received 10 million won along with his own trophy. The award ceremony, held immediately after the final match, featured key figures from the tournament's sponsor, Blitz Jasan Woonyong, including Chairman Kim Sung-man and CEO Kim Tae-kyu, who presented the awards.
The Senior World Go Open was a groundbreaking event that opened its doors to both professional and amateur players, regardless of nationality. This global tournament featured senior professionals (men aged 50 and over, women aged 40 and over) and amateur players (men aged 50 and over, women aged 19 and over). The tournament's structure allowed for a diverse range of participants, highlighting the universal appeal of Go.
In January 2025, preliminary rounds saw 33 professional players compete, with 12 advancing to the main event, while 54 amateur players participated, from which 6 were selected to join the final tournament. The inclusion of 6 seeded players from the sponsor brought the total to 24 for the knockout rounds, culminating in Lee's historic win.
In this inaugural event, the time control was set at 10 minutes per player, with an additional 20 seconds added for each move, allowing for strategic depth and intensity in every match. This format kept the players engaged and challenged throughout the competition.
As the first champion of the Senior World Go Open, Lee Chang-ho's victory marks a significant milestone in his already illustrious career. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this tournament will evolve in the future and whether it will become an annual showcase of Go talent.
Lee's win not only adds another title to his impressive resume but also brings renewed attention to the world of Go, inspiring a new generation of players. His dedication and love for the game shine through, and as he looks forward to future competitions, his fans can expect to see more thrilling performances from this Go legend.
In conclusion, the inaugural Senior World Go Open has set a high standard for future tournaments, combining competitive spirit with a celebration of the game's rich heritage. With Lee Chang-ho at the forefront, the future of Go looks bright, and the community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this storied game.
