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GM Aravindh Chithambaram

India

Born on September 11, 1999, in Thirunagar

Elo std: 2749
Rapid: 2550
Blitz: 2622

GMT: –
MTO: 2016 (3rd)
 

Known for his incisive style and resilience, Aravindh Chithambaram stands as yet another shining representative of India's rising chess generation. His recent triumphs in Prague and Chennai—which propelled him to 11th in the world rankings—have firmly established him as a serious contender on the international stage. While his ascent to the top tier came later than some of his compatriots, it fully validates the prophecy of his mentor, the legendary Ramesh: 'The greatest talent since Vishy Anand.'

 

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GM Quang Liem Le

Vietnam

Born on March 13, 1991, in Ho Chi Minh City

Elo std: 2729
Rapid: 2645
Blitz: 2662

GMT: 2024 (winner), 2023 (winner), 2022 (winner)
MTO: –
 

Liem's playing style combines formidable tactical vision with complete mastery across all time controls. A true virtuoso in blitz and rapid chess, he competes effortlessly with the world elite in classical formats too—as proven by his stunning victories over Carlsen (Oslo 2022) and Ding Liren (2024 Olympiad). His historic triple crown at Biel (2022-2024), an unprecedented feat in this demanding tournament, cements his reputation as a relentless competitor. At 34, his declared ambition is to claim a fourth title this summer in Biel!

 

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GM Frederik Svane

Germany

Born on January 21, 2004, in Lübeck

Elo std: 2668
Rapid: 2476
Blitz: 2520

GMT: –
MTO: –
 
Frederik employs a sharp and aggressive style, combining keen tactical intuition with a decidedly offensive temperament. His games often culminate in explosive endgames. His resounding victory over Matthias Blübaum in the 2021 Kader Challenge showcased the full extent of his potential. While he hasn’t yet crossed the 2700 Elo threshold, his rapid progress and calculated boldness suggest an imminent rise to the world elite—following in the footsteps of his illustrious compatriot, Vincent Keymer!
 
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GM Volodar Murzin

Russia

Born on July 18, 2006, in Nizhny Tagil

Elo std: 2658
Rapid: 2637
Blitz: 2657

GMT: –
MTO: –
 

Volodar has developed an electric and uncompromising playing style, defined by razor-sharp tactical intelligence. Despite his youth, he has forged an unshakable resilience—first enduring the trauma of an abusive father, then facing a lack of support from the Russian Federation, which disapproves of his and his coach, GM Kobalia’s, critical stance on the geopolitical situation. At just 18 years old, the newly crowned World Rapid Champion is now determined to take a decisive step toward the elite at the Biel Festival!

 
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GM Radoslaw Wojtaszek

Poland

Born on January 13, 1987, in Elbląg

Elo std: 2655
Rapid: 2658
Blitz: 2610

GMT: 2020 (winner), 2015 (2nd), 2014 (2nd)
MTO: –
 
Wojtaszek's style is known for its theoretical depth and versatility, refined through his work as Anand's second. His wins against Carlsen, Caruana, Nakamura and others, along with his sustained presence at the elite level, highlight his skill. His potential remains evident, reinforced by his recent work as Gukesh's second during the 2024 World Championship. At 37, the Polish player hasn't made his final move in the Triathlon – which he previously won in 2020 – though he hasn't yet had the opportunity to defend his title.
 
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GM Saleh Salem

United Arab Emirates

Born on January 04, 1993, in Sharjah

Elo std: 2631
Rapid: 2637
Blitz: 2667

GMT: 2024 (Challengers, winner), 2022 (5th)
MTO: 2021 (winner), 2019 (8th), 2018 (5th), 2017 (5th), 2016 (5th), 2013 (9th), 2011, 2009
 
With his aggressive and tactical playing style, thriving in rapid and blitz formats where his quick decision-making shines, Salem hopes to make his opponents tremble in this Masters, which he fully earned after his stunning victory in last year’s Challengers. Moreover, the student of Ivan Sokolov since 2013 will benefit from his triathlon experience, as this will be his third appearance after 2022 (following his 2021 MTO win) and 2024.