The most significant chess item on the chess calendar, starting on October 4 (this coming Tuesday), is the U.S. Championship - though it’s only the opening ceremony that takes place on that day; the action begins the following day. While Mr. Streamer, Hikaru Nakamura, will not be taking part, it’s still plenty strong with the following participants:
Wesley So (2771)
Levon Aronian (2759)
Fabiano Caruana (2758)
Leinier Dominguez (2745)
Sam Shankland (2712)
Ray Robson (2690)
Jeffery Xiong (2690)
Hans Niemann (2688)
Sam Sevian (2684)
Dariusz Swiercz (2652)
Awonder Liang (2608)
Christopher Yoo (2563)
Elshan Moradiabadi (2537)
Alex Lenderman (2535)
That is the most significant event. The most interesting event on October 4, by contrast, is that the Perpetual Chess Podcast has sunk to the depths of despair and will broadcast an interview with yours truly. Kidding aside, Ben Johnson’s podcast has been an amazing addition to the chess world, and I’m honored to have the chance to be on the show. He did a great job interviewing me as well, and I think you’ll enjoy the program. On this blog I’ve tried to keep the story in the forefront, not the storyteller, but on the podcast you’ll get a glimpse at the guy who has been “The Chess Mind” blogger for the past 17 years. And who knows, maybe Ben will invite me back in 2039?
So glad to hear Ben Johnson interviewed you. Can’t wait!