Anish Giri - Second Place Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2021
Wijk aan Zee is where most of my memorable moments in my chess career have happened. I have had it all there, made my GM title (2009), shared first place (2018, 2021), last place (2012), beaten Magnus Carlsen as a 16 year old kid (2011), lost 5 games in a row (2012). Every January, time and again, together with my friends and colleagues we are back in Wijk aan Zee, ready to battle it out in front of the home crowd in De Moriaan.
The atmosphere at the event is always special. The tournament has a rich history, and it is a special moment for every chess player to be taking part in this historic event. The village breaths chess every January and the fans, chess amateurs add special value to the tournament. Although 2021 and 2022 has to be played in the lockdown, I am still glad the tournament is as strong as ever and I do hope in 2023, we will celebrate the 85th edition (my 15th!) all in one hall, together with the amateur groups.
Enjoy the games!
Anish Giri
Ambassador Tata Steel Chess Tournament
