Hong Kong International Open 2025: A Record-Breaking Chess Festival
The 2025 Hong Kong International Open Chess Championship ended on a high note at Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Wan Chai. The event was organized by the Hong Kong China Chess Federation and attracted massive global attention.
More than 400 players from 30 regions took part in the tournament. Players came from countries such as India, China, Australia, the USA, Germany, Korea, and several Southeast Asian nations.
The prize fund saw a nearly 20% increase compared to last year. Over 80 titled players, including Grandmasters and International Masters, fought for top honors.
Thirteen Years of Growth for Asian Chess
Launched in 2010, the Hong Kong International Open reached its 13th edition in 2025. This year marked a historic milestone for the tournament.
It recorded the highest number of Grandmasters and International Masters in its history. The event also set new records for total participation and titled players.
Grand Opening with FIDE Leadership
The opening ceremony featured Akaki Iashvili, FIDE Management Board Member and Chairman of the FIDE Events Commission. He made the ceremonial first move to officially start the championship.
The organizers also highlighted Hong Kong’s local culture. Top-seeded players received special Cantonese-style gift sets from the popular brand Foodie Dim Sum. This gesture introduced players to the famous “yum cha” dining tradition, adding local flavor to the global chess event.
Boost to Hong Kong’s Economy
The championship was not just about chess. It is estimated to have generated nearly HKD 10 million in economic impact. Tourism, hotels, and local businesses all benefited from the influx of international visitors.
Vision for the Future
KK Chan, President of the Hong Kong China Chess Federation, shared the long-term goal of the event. He stated that the tournament aims to become an annual global meeting point for chess players and fans. The focus is on competition, connection, and strengthening the international chess community.
Open Category: Mongolia, China, and India Shine
After nine rounds over seven days, the Open Category delivered thrilling battles.
Top 3 – Open Category
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🥇 IM Amartuvshin Ganzorig (Mongolia)
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🥈 GM Peng Xiongjian (China)
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🥉 GM N R Visakh (India)
Other Top Finishers
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4️⃣ IM Vilka Sipila (Finland)
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5️⃣ IM A R Ilamparthi (India)
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6️⃣ GM Jacek Stopa (Poland)
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7️⃣ GM Pang Tao (China)
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8️⃣ GM Abhijeet Gupta (India)
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9️⃣ FM Sehyun Kwon (South Korea)
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🔟 GM Maxim Vavulin (Germany)
Challenger Category: Strong Home and Chinese Performance
The Challenger Category was dominated by China and Hong Kong, China.
Top 3 – Challenger Category
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🥇 Zheng Xiner (China) – the only female player in the top ten
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🥈 Li Tianbo (China)
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🥉 Tong Ho Man (Hong Kong, China)
Other Top Finishers
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4️⃣ Lam Yui Hei (Hong Kong, China)
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5️⃣ Geng Haolin (China)
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6️⃣ Guo Bo Kai Owen (Hong Kong, China)
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7️⃣ Stanislav Khudovekov (FIDE)
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8️⃣ Zhang Hanwen (Hong Kong, China)
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9️⃣ Zhang Yangming (China)
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🔟 Andrew Andi Wu (USA)
The Hong Kong International Open 2025 once again proved why it is one of Asia’s most prestigious open chess tournaments. With rising participation, strong international presence, and cultural celebration, the future of the event looks brighter than ever.
For more details, visit the official website: hkcfl.com
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
