In a stunning display of strategic prowess, renowned Chinese Go player Qi Baishi emerged as the champion of the 2025 International Go Tournament held in Shanghai, after a gripping final against Japanese prodigy Saito Hiroshi. This tournament, which featured 128 top players from 20 different countries, showcased thrilling matches over three days, culminating in the final showdown on January 21, 2025. Qi Baishi, who secured his position as a favorite early in the competition, delivered a masterclass in Go strategy, ultimately defeating Saito Hiroshi with a score of 3-1. In a post-match interview, Qi expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘I am honored to represent China and to compete against such talented players. This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication I have put into this game.’ The tournament also spotlighted extraordinary performances from other participants, including South Korean player Kim Jinho, who took home the Bronze medal. The success of this year’s event has been attributed to the strong international participation, with an increase of 30% in competitors compared to the previous year. Organizers hailed this tournament a huge success, with the president of the International Go Federation stating, ‘The rise in participation shows the growth and global interest in Go.’ Notably, the tournament was sponsored by technology giant Tencent, further solidifying its status as a premier event in the global Go community.
Chinese Go Player Qi Baishi Triumphs in International Tournament
