Overview of Nepomniachtchi’s Championship Campaign and Nutrition Notes
Sergey Kishnev, the longtime coach of Russian grandmaster Jan Nepomniachtchi, observed that during a recent match against the Chinese challenger Ding Liren, Nepomniachtchi shed about one and a half kilograms. The adjustment in weight came as the players prepared for high-stakes confrontations where endurance and stamina play a crucial role in late-game decision making. Kishnev emphasized the importance of the dietary plan for a chess professional, noting that the goal is not to risk poisoning but to ensure a steady intake of proteins, vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, and calories that support long sessions at the board. In describing the first game, Kishnev recalled that Jan lost roughly one and a half kilograms, a detail reported by Match TV.
The broader context for this period involves a sequence of events surrounding the world chess championship cycle. In July, Nepomniachtchi claimed victory at the 2022 Candidates Tournament, which qualified him for a match against the reigning world champion. Lizhen, a fellow competitor, secured second place, while Teymur Radjabov of Azerbaijan finished third. Later that month, it was announced that the current world champion Magnus Carlsen would not participate in the title match, a development that opened the door for a challenge between the Russian contender and the Chinese star.
On April 10, Nepomniachtchi played his second decisive game against Ding Liren, delivering a win that followed a drawn opening encounter between the two. This victory marked a significant milestone in Nepomniachtchi’s career, as it represented his first triumph in a match at this elite level. The win added to the momentum he carried into subsequent games and underscored the intense rivalry that has defined their encounters on the world stage.
Looking ahead, the third game of their series was scheduled for April 12, with the start time set for 12:00 Moscow time. Such timing is typical for major matches that bridge multiple time zones, requiring players to adjust sleep patterns and daily routines to maintain peak performance. Observers noted that every move in this match carried heavy implications for energy management, psychological balance, and strategic depth as both players sought to seize control in a tightly contested duel.
Additionally, there was public discussion about the strategic dynamics of Liren’s play prior to the crown match. Sergey Karyakin, a former rival and contemporary of Nepomniachtchi, had conversations with Nepomniachtchi about some of Liren’s unusual moves, offering insights into how one might interpret the Chinese challenger’s approach under the pressure of a world title fight. These exchanges highlighted the human element behind the game: the preparation, the reads on an opponent, and the mental adjustments required when stakes are at their highest.