Shabalov Wins US Open Again

2-time US Open champion GM Shabalov
poses with TD Francisco Guadalupe
(Photo credit: Guadalupe)

Defending champion GM Alexander Shabalov emerged as the winner after a dramatic final day at the 2016 US Open in Indianapolis.  At first, Shabalov vanquished GM Aleksandr Lenderman on top board for his 8th victory in 9 rounds.  Then he defeated Israeli GM Gil Popilski in an Armageddon blitz playoff to claim the trophy.  15-year old IM Ruifeng Li, the tournament leader throughout the entire week, only managed a draw in the final round and finished in 3rd place.  Officially, 389 participants played in at least one round of the giant single section swiss.

• Final Standings


• Rating Report 

Five shared the highest score from Northern California at 6.0 out of 9.  Congratulations to NM Michael Wang, NM John Langreck, FM Mark Pinto, and two young experts: Balaji Daggupati and Christopher Yoo.  11-year old Balaji is rated 2166 after an especially impressive run, defeating a pair of masters and losing only once, to top rated GM Illia Nyzhnyk. 9-year old Christopher finished perfect against opponents rated under 2200, and drew a master in the money round.   Well done guys!!