Hans Niemann cites Viswanathan Anand while pushing for ratings decay, stating, ‘I don’t believe that’s fair.’
Anand sometimes participates in classical leagues overseas and takes part more often in rapid tournaments such as the Global Chess League.
Anand, who describes himself as “semi-retired,” now seldom competes in classical tournaments.
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American Grandmaster Hans Niemann recently voiced support for introducing ratings decay in chess, pointing to Viswanathan Anand as an example. He noted that the Indian legend has maintained his rating despite playing only 5–10 games annually. Anand, who considers himself “semi-retired,” now seldom participates in classical events. He does, however, make occasional appearances in classical leagues overseas and takes part more regularly in rapid tournaments such as the Global Chess League.
“Overall, when you consider how chess time controls and the rating system have evolved over time compared to the pace of global change, I believe it’s time for some adjustments. First and foremost, I think rating decay is necessary. The current system, which allows someone like Vishy Anand—an incredible player—to retain his rating while playing only 5 to 10 games a year, doesn’t seem fair to me,” Niemann said on the FIDE YouTube channel.
“I believe chess should adopt a system similar to tennis. The idea that someone can qualify for the Candidates without participating in events like the Grand Swiss or the World Cup doesn’t sit right with me. He hardly plays classical chess, and when he does, his style is cautious and solid—he’s not particularly ambitious. I think it’s time for the chess world to rethink and update its system,” Niemann added.
Niemann was responding to a question about the recent controversy involving Hikaru Nakamura, who has been accused of attempting to secure a spot in the Candidates by skipping major events like the ongoing Grand Swiss and the Sinquefield Cup. Instead, he chose to compete in the Louisiana State Championship, facing opponents significantly below his level.
Judit Polgar came to Hikaru Nakamura’s defense amid the controversy, supporting his decision and challenging the criticism he has faced.
American-Hungarian GM Susan Polgar recently defended Nakamura, stating that the US Grandmaster isn’t avoiding anything but is openly competing in lower-rated tournaments.
“This fake moral outrage is misplaced! Earlier today, I posted about Hikaru Nakamura’s 7-0 win at the Louisiana State Chess Championship. It’s rare for a world-class player to enter small open tournaments and pay their own way. Hikaru openly tweeted and streamed the event—he didn’t hide anything. The players welcomed him warmly; he smiled for photos and analyzed games with them. He acted very professionally!”
“Some people got angry about it, but it’s none of their business. Hikaru can spend his time however he wants. If this violates any rules, then FIDE should handle it. As far as I know, he hasn’t broken any rules,” Polgar posted on X.
