Carlsen Seals Nanjing Win

If Magnus Carlsen (pictured) eventually becomes what many believe he is destined to be - the world chess champion - the 2009 Pearl Spring tournament may be remembered as a turning point.

In round 9 at Nanjing, Carlsen comfortably held a draw against Radjabov with the black pieces and thereby assured himself of clear first place, a cheque for 80,000 euros, and the best tournament performance of his life.

If Carlsen manages to score yet another win in the final round with the white pieces against Jakovenko, he will be very close to breaking the 2800 Elo barrier.  Allowing for some ratings inflation through the years, this would make him a member of a very exclusive club consisting only of:

• Garry Kasparov (peak 2851)
  
• Veselin Topalov (peak 2813)
  
• Vladimir Kramnik (peak 2809)
  
• Vishy Anand (peak 2803)
  

All the games in round 9 were draws, so the standings with one round to go are: