ChessEver News · July 24, 2026
Vladimir Akopian wins 2026 U.S. Senior Championship playoff
The national title was decided in blitz after the two finalists split the rapid portion of Friday’s playoff.
Vladimir Akopian won the 2026 U.S. Senior Championship after defeating Alexander Onischuk in Friday’s playoff in Saint Louis.
The two grandmasters had finished the nine-round championship tied on 6.5/9. Akopian won the first rapid playoff game, but Onischuk answered with Black in the second to force blitz.
Akopian took the first blitz game before completing the playoff victory in the next game. The title announcement awarded him first place after the extended tiebreak.
Earlier coverage: How the playoff was set.
Image: Saint Louis Chess Club.