Nihal Sarin beats World Champion Gukesh again, on the verge of winning Menorca Masters 2026
Nihal Sarin defeated the World Champion, D Gukesh for the second time in three days at Menorca Masters 2026. However, Nihal lost the following round game against Richard Rapport (HUN). Gukesh bounced back with a win against Pentala Harikrishna.
Ponomariov and Rapport in the fray
Nihal Sarin needs a draw as a minimum against Ruslan Ponomariov in the final round to become a clear champion.
Round 8: Gukesh – Nihal: 0.5-0.5
The reigning World Champion D Gukesh went wrong in the rook and opposite color bishop endgame.
Position after 37…b4
In an already difficult position, 38.Kg2?? turned things completely in Black’s favor. 38…Rb2+ 39.Kg3 Rb3 40.Bg1 Bd5 41.Rb6 Rxf3+ and Black won the game in ten more moves.
Nihal Sarin defeated the World Champion twice in three days | Photo: Saji Mathew
Pentala Harikrishna – Ruslan Ponomariov (UKR): 1-0 | Photo: Saji Mathew
Round 9: Harikrishna – Gukesh: 0-1
Gukesh bounced back with a victory against Pentala Harikrishna using Hippopotamus Defence with the black pieces.
Pentala Harikrishna – D Gukesh: 0-1 | Photo: Saji Mathew
Richard Rapport (HUN) – Nihal Sarin: 1-0 | Photo: Saji Mathew
Replay 8-9 games
Round 8-9 pairings and results
Standings after Round 9
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