Anand Beats Karpov 3.5-0.5

On the second day of their rapid match, Vishy Anand (pictured) comfortably won both games against former champion Anatoly Karpov, to emerge the victor by 3.5-0.5.

No-one doubts the heart and passion that the great Anatoly Karpov has for chess, but it seems that his advancing years and the limited amount of time he can now give to the game, are seriously affecting his practical playing strength.

After heavy defeats to Kasparov and Anand in recent events, not to mention some below par tournament performances, perhaps it's time for Karpov to retire gracefully.  He was one of the greatest champions in history in his day, and has nothing left to prove to anyone.

Just as no-one likes to see a boxer fighting on well past his prime, no chess fans want to see Karpov become a punchbag for average GM's who he would have crushed easily back in the 1970's, 80's and 90's. (I'm not suggesting Kasparov and Anand are average GM's, of course! )