Hikaru Nakamura wins! Opening was the Sicilian Dragon, and what a sharp battle it was.
Gukesh came out strong, getting a promising position out of the opening, but as the clock ticked down, time pressure proved costly. A few inaccuracies crept in, and Hikaru, ever alert in rapid, pounced immediately, turning the tables and converting confidently.
A tough Day 3 continues for Gukesh, while Nakamura gets the win, showing his class in the clutch moments.
We continue the action here on Day 3 of the Champions Showdown 2025: Clutch Chess, live from St. Louis!
With the current standings, both Gukesh and Hikaru Nakamura are unfortunately out of contention for the title. Day 3 hasn’t gone the way they hoped, both have faced tough games and missed chances earlier in the day.