In a memorable session in Goa, UAE Grandmaster Salem Abdulrahman extended his fine form at the 2025 FIDE World Chess Cup, claiming a hard-earned win with the black pieces over American prodigy Abhimanyu Mishra. The victory secured Abdulrahman a berth in the event’s Round of 64 and represented a proud moment for the Emirati chess community.

Held on India’s western coast, the World Cup has pulled together more than 200 top players from across the globe, competing for a prize fund exceeding US$2 million. Abdulrahman’s performance blended sharp tactical vision and composure in the endgame as he gradually outplayed Mishra, the youngest-ever Grandmaster.

The knockout competition, which opened earlier this month, runs until November 27 and tests both strategic depth and stamina. Abdulrahman’s progress not only raises his international standing but also shines a spotlight on the UAE’s growing presence in elite chess circles.

With the tournament entering its decisive knockout phase, fans and analysts will be eager to track Abdulrahman’s next moves as he aims to build on this breakthrough and go deeper into the World Cup.