Sunav Adhikari, 11, started playing chess at just seven years old, a moment that would quietly shape the next several years of his life. Introduced to the game by his dad and brother, he first saw chess as something simple—just a fun activity shared at home. But what began as casual games soon turned into something much bigger. “I started playing in local tournaments when I was eight years old,” Adhikari said. “I was more of an average chess player locally, especially compared to the players in the chess club today. However, during Covid-19, I built up a lot of skills and I came back a lot better.”
Adhikari holds the title of National Master which is given by the U.S. Chess Federation to players who reach 2,200 or above, placing them in the top 1% of rated chess players in the U.S. He earned the title at a personal tournament, competing against opponents of all ages. For a player his age, this accomplishment is rare and it marks a serious step forward in his chess career.
Adhikari describes chess tournaments as both exciting and intensely demanding. A single round can last four to five hours, requiring concentration that many people may find difficult to sustain. “In general, I try to calculate the best move and ignore my feelings,” he explained. “That genuinely works well for me when I’m stressed.” Despite the pressure, he loves the thrill that comes with each game, especially when he sees his rating rise or wins a match that requires long and careful planning.
One thing he wishes more people understood about chess is the sheer number of possibilities in the game—how truly endless they are. The most prestigious chess title is the GrandMaster title, and this is a goal that Adhikari wishes to achieve in the future. For now, Adhikari continues building toward that dream. Each Wednesday after school, he meets with the chess club until 4:00 p.m. practicing strategies, playing matches, and studying the game with others who share his passion.
