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Hans Niemann: It’s not a surprise for me that I am beating the top-level players

19-year-old USA grandmaster Hans Niemann yesterday scored his first ever victory against a player who is rated 2750+. He defeated Shakhriyar Mamedyarov in the 2nd round of the Sinquefield Cup 2022, and after a wild game, showed a perfect technique in the Queens endgame in the end. In the post-game interview, Niemann was surprised with his well play in the time trouble: “You can be surprised with yourself when you’re going down on time. The thing is that in these first two games I know that my opponents are playing terribly, and I am like, what are these guys doing, they’re supposed to be the top players. So I am trying to punish“. Commenting on his first ever victory against a 2750+ rated player, Hans concluded: “It’s not a surprise to me that I am beating these (top-level) players. I have improved quite a lot lately, so I have sort of become numb to these rapid changes for me. In my mind I am already a top player, so winning a game confirms that. My confidence, of course, can be strengthened by such a win, but confidence comes from commitment and hard work, not just winning.” See the complete interview below.

With yesterday’s victory, Hans Nieman joined World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen in the lead of the Sinquefield Cup 2022. The third round of the event, which is scheduled for today 13:00 CDT, features the clash of the leaders: Magnus Carlsen vs Hans Niemann.

Sinquefield Cup 2022: Pairings & Schedule / Live games / Day 3 live video coverage / Day 2 results & recap

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