Viktor Gažík and Zuzana Hagarová Win Slovak Chess Championship 2026
GM Viktor Gažík and IM Zuzana Hagarová have won the 2026 Slovak Chess Championship titles in the Open and Women’s sections.
The tournament was held in Bratislava from June 13 to 21. Both events featured 10 players competing in a round-robin format with classical time control.
Gažík Successfully Defends His Title
The Open section saw an exciting battle between defending champion Viktor Gažík and GM Peter Michalík. Both players shared the lead until Round 6.
Gažík then took control of the tournament by winning two important games in a row. Meanwhile, Michalík could only manage two draws, allowing Gažík to move ahead. In the penultimate round, Gažík suffered a loss against IM Vladimír Bochnička. However, he made a strong comeback in the final round by defeating GM Filip Haring.
With a final score of 7/9, Viktor Gažík successfully defended his Slovak national title. Peter Michalík finished second, one point behind the champion. GM Juraj Druska secured third place with 5.5/9.
Hagarová Triumphs in Dramatic Women’s Event
The Women’s Championship remained undecided until the final round. IM Zuzana Hagarová and WIM Svetlana Sučikova entered the last game tied for first place with 6.5/8 each. The title was decided in their direct encounter.
Hagarová delivered a crucial victory under pressure and captured the Slovak women’s title. Sučikova earned the silver medal, while WFM Monika Rojíčková finished third with 5.5/9. The 2026 Slovak Chess Championship once again delivered exciting games and a thrilling finish in both sections.
Official website: https://www.msr2026.chess.sk/index.html
Photos: Slovenský šachový zväz
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
