MANILA, Philippines — Wesley So, born in the Philippines but now playing for the United States, conquered reigning world champion Magnus Carlsen to reign supreme in the Euro Opera Rapid of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour yesterday.
The 27-year-old So cashed in on all the chances given him while Carlsen failed to capitalize on his as the former scored a 2.5-1.5 win on the final day after a 2-2 draw the day before to claim his second title in the Tour plus the top prize worth $30,000 or close to P1.5 million.
It’s the second time that So, the world Fischer-Random champion, brought down Carlsen, the world blitz, rapid and standard king, following the former’s triumph in the Skilling Open in November last year.
So’s first win over Carlsen came on the latter’s 30th birthday on Nov. 30. And his second win against the Norwegian chess wizard came on Valentine’s Day.
“I’d like to apologize to Magnus for ruining his Valentine’s Day,” said So.