Anish Sarkar, at just three years, eight months, and 19 days, has made history as the youngest-ever FIDE-rated chess player with an Elo rating of 1555. This incredible milestone reflects his remarkable talent and dedication at such a young age.
Debut Performance Sets the Stage
Anish began his chess journey with a strong debut in the 1st All Bengal Rapid Rating Open 2024, scoring an impressive 5 points out of 11 games. This achievement not only highlighted his skills but also paved the way for his rapid rise in the competitive chess arena.
A Match with India’s Chess Elite
A key moment in Anish’s journey was his unexpected match against Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, one of India’s top players and currently ranked No. 4 in the world. Although Anish initially didn’t qualify for the tournament, a last-minute opportunity allowed him to participate as a substitute. This surprise chance gave Anish a rare exposure to top-tier competition, fueling his ambition and accelerating his path toward earning his official rating.
Competing Against Older Players
Anish further showcased his chess prowess in the West Bengal State Under-9 Open Rating 2024, where he scored 5.5 out of 8 points, placing him 24th out of 140 participants. In this tournament, he impressed by defeating two rated players in the final rounds, a significant accomplishment for someone of his age and experience.
Achieving the FIDE Rating
Eager to meet the official requirements for his FIDE rating, Anish continued to compete in rated tournaments, demonstrating both skill and determination. His journey reached its peak at the West Bengal State Under-13 Open Rating 2024, where he achieved the necessary qualifications, cementing his place in chess history as the youngest FIDE-rated player.