Filipino chess grandmaster Wesley So triumphed at the 2026 US Chess Championship held on October 22, defeating Fabiano Caruana in the rapid playoff. With this win, So claimed a prize of $56,000 (P3.55 million) at the Saint Louis Chess Club.
A Comeback Victory
Despite a challenging loss to Sam Sevian in the 11th round, So rallied back in the playoffs. The 33-year-old scored 1.5 points against Caruana, who had dominated the championship since 2022.
So's comeback was remarkable, as he showcased his resilience after a tough defeat.
Roy Luarca, Sports Journalist
- So's previous championship wins: 2017, 2020, 2021
- Caruana's four-year reign ends with this championship
In the playoff, So overcame a shaky start, responding effectively to Caruana's risky pawn sacrifice in the second match of the tiebreaker.
So's journey to the finals included victories over notable players, including Sam Shankland and Ray Robson, alongside several draws with other top competitors.
This championship adds to So's impressive resume, which includes victories in other major tournaments such as the Americas Cup and the Sinquefield Cup earlier in the year.
In the women's competition, Rachel Li claimed the US Women's Championship, while 13-year-old Fide Master Megan Paragua finished tied for fourth, showcasing the growing talent among young players.