Chess Grandmasters Ignite the 15th Chinese National Games in Shenzhen

Shenzhen, China – September 28, 2025

The 15th National Games of the People`s Republic of China, the nation`s premier multi-sport spectacle, recently concluded its highly anticipated chess competition in Shenzhen. From September 23rd to 28th, the intellectual arena buzzed with strategic brilliance, culminating in the crowning of Grandmasters Wang Hao and Hou Yifan as champions in the Open and Women’s sections, respectively. The prestigious team event gold was claimed by the Jiangsu contingent, marking a triumphant end to a week of intense mental combat.

The Grand Stage: A Convergence of Chinese Chess Elite

Often perceived as a quiet pursuit, chess at the National Games offered a stark contrast to its more boisterous athletic counterparts, yet delivered an equal measure of drama and competitive fervor. The event attracted China`s most formidable chess talents, a star-studded lineup that included former world champions Ding Liren, Wei Yi, and Yu Yangyi in the Open category, alongside women`s world champion Ju Wenjun, the legendary Hou Yifan, Lei Tingjie, and Zhu Jiner in the Women`s division.

The tournament format was designed to rigorously test endurance and adaptability: a round-robin preliminary stage pared down the field, with the top four players advancing to grueling semifinals and finals. All matches were played under a rapid time control of 25 minutes plus a 10-second increment, ensuring dynamic play and high-stakes decisions.

Open Section Drama: Wang Hao`s Tiebreak Triumph

The Open section proved to be a crucible of unforeseen challenges and remarkable performances. The preliminary round itself delivered a minor sensation: seventh-seed Xu Yinglun, a player of considerable skill but perhaps underestimated by some, defied expectations. He navigated the initial stage with poise, securing a coveted semifinal spot ahead of higher-rated Grandmasters Yu Yangyi and Lu Shanglei, a testament to the depth of Chinese chess talent and the `anything can happen` nature of high-level competition.

The semifinals were nothing short of enthralling. Wang Hao faced Xu Yinglun, while Ding Liren battled Xu Xiangyu. Both encounters were fiercely contested, pushing players to their limits and ultimately requiring tiebreakers to determine the finalists. Wang Hao and Xu Xiangyu emerged victorious, setting the stage for a climactic showdown.

The final, mirroring the intensity of the semifinals, was another nail-biting affair. In a demonstration of nerves and precision, Wang Hao clinched the Open title by winning the tiebreaker, a fitting reward for his consistent performance throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, world-class Grandmaster Ding Liren, after his semifinal loss, secured the bronze medal by defeating Xu Yinglun, solidifying his place among the top performers.

Open Section Round Robin Standings (Top Contenders)

Women`s Triumph: Hou Yifan`s Unchallenged Mastery

In the Women`s section, the narrative was one of expected dominance. The prodigious Hou Yifan, a former Women`s World Champion and widely considered one of the greatest female players of all time, lived up to her reputation. She emerged victorious, showcasing her unparalleled skill and strategic depth against a field of formidable competitors. While specific match details of her path to victory were not highlighted, her triumph underscores her enduring legacy and continued relevance at the highest echelons of chess.

Team Spirit: Jiangsu Claims Gold

Beyond individual glory, the National Games also celebrated collective achievement with a fiercely contested team event. The Jiangsu team displayed exceptional synergy and tactical prowess to secure the gold medal, a testament to their coordinated efforts and deep roster of talent. Shandong and Hebei teams fought valiantly, earning well-deserved silver and bronze medals, respectively, highlighting the competitive provincial chess scene in China.

A Legacy of Intellectual Combat

The 15th Chinese National Games chess competition was more than just a series of games; it was a vibrant display of intellectual fortitude, strategic genius, and emerging talent. The event in Shenzhen successfully brought together the present and future stars of Chinese chess, fostering a competitive environment that pushes players to excel. From Wang Hao`s clutch victory to Hou Yifan`s masterful performance and Jiangsu`s team triumph, these games will undoubtedly contribute to the rich tapestry of China`s chess history and inspire the next generation of grandmasters.