Thrilling Finale at Tata Steel Masters: Possible Tiebreak Scenario Explained!

As the final round of the Tata Steel Masters approaches, chess fans around the world are eagerly anticipating a dramatic conclusion. With Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Abdusattorov still in contention for the title, the possibility of a tiebreak looms large. But how exactly will the champion be determined if multiple players finish with the same score? Here’s what you need to know about the tiebreak regulations and what might unfold after the last round.

How a Tiebreak is Triggered

If two or more players finish the tournament tied for first place, a tiebreak will be played to determine the 2025 Tata Steel Masters champion. The prize money, however, will be shared equally among all players involved in the tiebreak, regardless of the final outcome.

The tiebreak games will be held immediately after the final round, with a minimum 30-minute rest period for the players before the action resumes.

Time control

• 3 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move, except for 'sudden death' games.
• The time control for 'sudden death' games is as follows:
  • White: 2.5 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move.
  • Black: 3 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move.

Tiebreak Format for Three Players

If all three contenders remain tied at the top, the tiebreak will follow this format:

• A single round-robin tournament will be played among Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Nodirbek Abdusattorov.
• A drawing of lots will determine the pairing numbers.
• If all three players are still tied after this phase, another round-robin will be played, but with reversed colors.
• This process will continue until at least one or two players emerge victorious.
• If the three-player tiebreak eventually leads to just two players remaining tied, the tiebreak will then follow the two-player format.

Tiebreak Format for Two Players

If the title race narrows down to just two players, the champion will be determined as follows:

• A play-off match of two blitz games will be played. Draw of lots decides which player starts with white.
• If the match ends in a tie, a sudden death game will take place:
  • Draw of lots decides which player starts with white.
  • If the game is drawn, another sudden death game is played.
  • After the first game, colors alternate every two games.
  • This continues until a player wins a game, determining the Tata Steel Masters champion.

A Battle for Wijk aan Zee History

With Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Abdusattorov locked in contention, the 2025 Tata Steel Masters is set for a thrilling finish. Whether the champion is crowned after the final round or the battle extends into an intense tiebreak, chess fans can expect the ultimate showdown on the final day of the Tata Steel Chess Tournament.

Find the full tiebreak regulations here.

Promotion rules | Tata Steel Challengers

The winner of the Tata Steel Challengers 2025 will receive an invitation for the Tata Steel Masters 2026. In case of an equal score, the invitee will be determined according to the following rules (in order of importance): 

1. direct encounter,
2. the Sonneborn-Berger score,
3. the player with more games with black,
4. drawing of lots.