Top Seed Survival: When you’re the one who has to carry the boat♟

For some players, being the favorite comes naturally. They handle the pressure like pros. But let’s be honest, playing as the favorite feels completely different. Your opponent can play with nothing to lose, while you’re under pressure like a submarine. And trust me, this kind of game requires a totally different battle plan!

Every chess master has their own go-to strategy here. Some go all-out aggressive, blasting open the board from move one. Others dominate from the get-go or pull out a secret opening just for these moments.

Me? My approach is a bit... patient. I let my opponent play freely and well… wait. Wait for them to make the first mistake. And when they slip? I go in for the kill!

This style has minimal risk for me since I play a solid game. But here’s the catch: an unforced blunder doesn’t just fall from the sky. Often, I’m sitting at that board for hours, wearing my opponent down.

In my experience, around hour four, most players start to look like they’ll slide right off their chairs from exhaustion. That’s when I really come alive, pouncing on every little blunder. My secret weapon? Stamina. Great physical endurance is everything. I strongly recommend at least 2-3 workouts a week for every serious player. Pair that with a clean diet in the days leading up to a tournament, and you’re all set.

Some go for ball sports, cycling, swimming, or the gym. Personally? I swear by running. In this crisp weather, there’s just nothing better—it makes me feel alive. Kind of like that fourth hour at the board...