Magnus Carlsen’s 15-year reign as the world No. 1 is facing a serious challenge after the five-time world champion suffered a shock defeat to Armenia’s Haik Martirosyan on the third day of the Fast Classical competition at the Total Chess World Championship Tour Pilot.
The Norwegian, who has occupied the top position since July 2011has endured a difficult campaign in the Fast Classical section. Five draws and a defeat have cost him 15.8 rating points, taking his live rating down to 2807.2.
American Grandmaster Fabiano Caruana is now breathing down Carlsen’s neck. Enjoying an impressive run, Caruana has picked up five victories and two draws, adding 17 points to his rating to move to 2800. The gap between the two players has consequently narrowed to just 7.2 points.
While live ratings fluctuate with every result, FIDE continues to release its official ratings on a monthly basis.
The defeat to Martirosyan was particularly significant, with the Armenian securing his first-ever victory over Carlsen in a classical FIDE-rated encounter. Playing with the white pieces, Martirosyan produced an aggressive display, gradually building pressure before finding the breakthrough in 41 moves.
Carlsen’s difficulties began early as he found himself battling time pressure. With the clock running down, the Norwegian was unable to find the best moves, making costly errors that allowed his opponent to take control. With his position deteriorating, Carlsen eventually conceded defeat.
The second meeting between the two Grandmasters ended in a stalemate, with neither player able to force a decisive result in the reverse fixture.
“It was a dream for me just to play him in a classical game but to win is even more special. I will think about this moment many times it is very special for me.
“It was an amazing day and I will remember this day for the rest of my life,” Martirosyan said.
Martirosyan’s victory and subsequent draw took his tally to 10 points, putting him alone at the top of the Group C standings. Carlsen, meanwhile, dropped to fifth in the table.
Only the four highest-placed players in each group will advance to the title contest, with the remaining competitors battling it out for classification positions.
– Ends
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