Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri, representing Team Secret, has successfully qualified for the main event of the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) chess tournament. His qualification came after a dramatic victory in the Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) against American Grandmaster Hans Niemann, where Giri flagged Niemann in a position Niemann was reportedly winning. As stated by chess24 on social media, "> A stunning finish as @anishgiri of @teamsecret qualifies for the main event of the #EsportsWorldCup by flagging Hans Niemann, who was completely winning almost all game!"
The decisive match saw Giri defeat Niemann with a 2.5-0.5 score, securing his spot among the 16 elite players. The pivotal moment occurred in a rapid game where Niemann, despite holding a strong position, ran out of time, allowing Giri to claim victory on the clock. Niemann's visible frustration, including reportedly slamming the table after the loss, underscored the high stakes and unexpected conclusion of the encounter.
The 2025 Esports World Cup chess event, set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 29 to August 1, boasts a substantial $1.5 million prize pool. This marks chess's historic debut as a competitive title in the EWC, highlighting the game's growing prominence in the esports landscape. The tournament will feature 16 top players, with 12 qualifying through the Champions Chess Tour and four, including Giri, earning their berths via the Last Chance Qualifier.
Anish Giri is a highly-ranked Dutch Grandmaster, known for his consistent performance at the elite level of chess. His affiliation with Team Secret, a prominent esports organization, signifies the increasing integration of traditional chess talents into the professional esports ecosystem. Hans Niemann, an American Grandmaster, has been a notable figure in the chess world, often involved in high-profile matches and discussions.
The Esports World Cup 2025 is a multi-title event with an unprecedented overall prize pool exceeding $70 million, aiming to unite various gaming communities. Chess's inclusion and its dedicated $1.5 million prize fund reflect the EWC Foundation's commitment to expanding the definition of esports. This initiative provides a significant platform for chess to reach a broader audience and further solidify its position as a global competitive spectacle.