GM Hikaru Nakamura claimed victory in the Champions Final of The American Cup 2025 after a nail-biting match against Fabiano Caruana, ending with a score of 3.5-2.5 in blitz tiebreaks. This triumph not only secures him a $15,000 bonus but also cements his legacy in the tournament, having won it both years he has participated.
In the Women’s American Cup Champions Final, IM Alice Lee showcased her resilience and skill by defeating WGM Tatev Abrahamyan, avoiding any tiebreaks and claiming a $9,000 bonus. Lee’s win is a testament to her steady composure under pressure, and she may soon learn who her opponent will be in the Grand Finals.
As the tournament unfolds, it’s become clear that both survivors of the Elimination Bracket are hungry for redemption. GM Levon Aronian, who eliminated Sam Sevian, and GM Irina Krush, who knocked out IM Nazi Paikidze, will vie for one of the coveted spots in the Grand Finals on Friday, March 21, 2025. They will face their formidable opponents, Caruana and Abrahamyan, respectively, in what's set to be a thrilling day of chess.
Nakamura and Caruana’s matchup was fiercely competitive; they each drew their classical games before moving into the blitz tiebreakers. Nakamura took advantage of his experience, winning one blitz game and drawing another to secure the match. In a post-match interview, he expressed the seriousness with which he approached the classical games compared to the more laid-back attitude required for blitz. “The classical games feel very serious, and then everything else is more or less for fun,” Nakamura stated.
The blitz games showcased a different dynamic altogether. Game one saw Caruana mishandling a position after an opening novelty, giving Nakamura an opportunity to capitalize. He remarked, “If I get too low on time, my brain doesn't function like it once did,” emphasizing the importance of time management in blitz chess. He noted his initial struggles in the second game but found his flow as it progressed.
Though the first blitz game appeared challenging for Caruana, he found himself with winning chances in the second with a wild Sicilian Najdorf opening. Despite a valiant effort, Nakamura held on. “I thought that I played a great match for the first three games... but I let this last game get very, very messy,” Caruana admitted afterward, acknowledging Nakamura's persistent pressure.
Meanwhile, Alice Lee's win was crucial. She faced reigning champion Abrahamyan, who had her own set of tense moments. After making the necessary tactical maneuvers to solidify her position and avoid losing, Lee managed to escape a losing endgame. “I'm not happy with my play quality... but I'll take the win,” Lee expressed, illustrating the mental fortitude required to succeed in high-stakes matches.
Aronian and Krush showcased their own tactical acumen in the Elimination Round. Aronian eliminated Sevian, but not without a stroke of luck. Reflecting on his close call, he stated, “I got really lucky today,” as he benefitted from an opponent's blunder. Krush also looked to stage a comeback against Abrahamyan, whom she has wanted to face again after her previous match losses. “I just want another crack at Alice,” she declared, showing her determination to reclaim her position.
As the tournament continues, anticipation builds for the Elimination Finals, where both Caruana and Aronian will have a significant amount of pressure. Any loss will mean they fall short of advancing to the Grand Finals. The format of The American Cup, featuring double-elimination, means that any player defeated once still has a chance to come back and contend for the ultimate prize.
This year’s American Cup amounts to a grand prize of $250,000, with each match showcasing the tactical brilliance and psychological depth inherent to the game of chess. Scheduled to continue from March 15-24, the champions of both brackets will receive significant bonuses, with Nakamura, set to earn at least $55,000 if he advances but aiming for the full $75,000 prize.
Fans of chess are encouraged to tune in as the Elimination Finals take place on Friday, March 21, 2025, starting at 12:00 p.m. CDT / 17:00 CET / 9:30 p.m. IST. The Saint Louis Chess Club will stream the event live, providing insights from experts and commentary throughout the tournament.
