Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

Chess

3-year-old Anish Sarkar becomes world's youngest FIDE-rated chess player

The youngster made history by becoming a FIDE-rated chess player at a remarkably tender age.

3-year-old Anish Sarkar becomes worlds youngest FIDE-rated chess player
X

Anish finished 24th among 140 competitors at the West Bengal State Under-9 Open Rating 2024. (Photo Credit: Shahid Ahmed)

By

The Bridge Desk

Updated: 1 Nov 2024 12:05 PM GMT

Anish Sarkar, born on January 26, 2021, has made headlines by earning his first official chess rating at the tender age of 3 years, 8 months, and 19 days old.

In doing so, he becomes the youngest FIDE-rated chess player.

In a remarkable display of talent, his official Elo rating of 1555 was confirmed on November 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the youngster's life.

His chess journey began with a tournament debut at the 1st SXCCAA All Bengal Rapid Rating Open 2024, where he scored an impressive 5 points from 11 games.

Just weeks later, he participated in a rapid rating tournament, where he had the rare opportunity to compete against GM Arjun Erigaisi, India’s top player and the world’s fourth-ranked chess player, during a simultaneous exhibition.

Initially, Anish wasn’t on the participant list due to an ineligibility in qualification criteria. However, as luck would have it, a player’s absence allowed him to step in as a substitute.

Following this, Anish competed in the West Bengal State Under-9 Open Rating 2024, achieving a score of 5.5 out of 8 and finishing 24th among 140 competitors.

Notably, he defeated two rated players in the final rounds, showcasing his potential against seasoned opponents.

To officially earn his rating, he needed to face additional rated players in subsequent tournaments.

He then participated in the West Bengal State Under-13 Open Rating 2024.

And despite facing tough competition, Anish fulfilled the necessary criteria to achieve a remarkable rating.

Next Story