The third round of the Asian Individual Chess Championship 2026 concluded with intense competition across both sections. In the Open category, 8 of the top 10 boards ended in draws, highlighting the closely contested nature of the tournament. After three rounds, Grandmaster Abdimalik Abdisalimov of Uzbekistan stands alone at the top of the standings as the only player to maintain a perfect score.
In the Women’s category, six players from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, India, and Russia remain unbeaten and continue to share the lead.
The ceremonial first move of Round 3 was made by four-time Women’s World Champion, Super Grandmaster Hou Yifan. She also joined Mongolian Chess Federation President G. Zandanshatar in the live broadcast studio, where they shared insights and commentary on the games.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was the visit of special guest B. Garidmagnai, better known as Blitz, captain of The MongolZ and a FIDE Master. During the live broadcast, he provided professional analysis of the games alongside his chess coach, Merited Coach and Grandmaster D. Sharavdorj, and host FIDE Master S. Gan-Od.
Watch the Round 3 live broadcast replay:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18rm4DmBmj/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Tournament standings:
Open Section → https://s3.chess-results.com/tnr1399377.aspx?lan=1&art=1&rd=3&turdet=YES&flag=30&SNode=S0
Women’s Section → https://s1.chess-results.com/tnr1399378.aspx?lan=1&art=1&rd=3&turdet=YES&flag=30&SNode=S0
Photo Gallery:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1c_s_X2am9brRpsmPRmyOmbAlORmZrpA2