Awonder Liang
GM Awonder Liang defeated GM Hikaru Nakamura 6-4 in the Hikaru vs. Awonder Candidates Training Match at the Saint Louis Chess Club from March 13-15, 2026. The match included two classical draws, a 3-1 rapid win for Liang, and a 2-2 blitz tie. Nakamura used the event to prepare for the upcoming FIDE Candidates Tournament in Cyprus.