Naitik Mehta Scores Maiden IM Norm at 19th Arad Open Grand Prix Classic 2026

Interview with Naitik

With this wonderful performance, Naitik not only secured his IM Norm but also won 3rd place in the 2151-2300 Rating Category. After the tournament, we caught up with Naitik and discussed the tournament with him.

Interview with ChessBase India

Devansh Singh: What was going through your mind when you realized you were about to achieve your IM Norm?
Naitik Mehta: I was quite nervous going into the last game because it was a must-win game for the IM norm. At the same time, I was confident in my preparation and knew I could do it. When I finally realized that I had achieved the norm, I felt a huge sense of relief and happiness. It was a very special moment after all the hard work and preparation that went into it.

Check out the final round game

Devansh: How do you feel this achievement reflects your journey in chess so far?
Naitik: It reflects the hard work and consistency I’ve put into chess over the years. The maiden IM norm is an important milestone in my journey and motivates me to keep improving.

Devansh: You were very talented as a young kid. Then you slowed down a bit and now once again have picked up. Can you tell us what happened in the last few years?
Naitik: I took a break from chess to focus on my studies. During my B. Tech, I played a few FIDE-rated events whenever I got the opportunity, which helped me stay connected with the game. Recently, I decided to focus more seriously on chess again.

Devansh: You are into fitness? Can you tell our readers your fitness routine?
Naitik: I used to work on my fitness during college, mainly to stay active and maintain a healthy routine. I enjoyed going to the gym and working out whenever I had the time. I feel fitness also helped me with discipline and staying consistent, which is useful in chess as well.

Devansh: When did your chess journey begin and what initially drew you to the game?
Naitik: My chess journey began by watching my parents and elder cousins play chess at home. I became curious about the game and gradually started playing myself.

Devansh: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced on your path to this norm?
Naitik: One of the biggest challenges was missing the norm several times, sometimes by just half a point or a single point. Those experiences were frustrating, but they taught me to stay patient and keep working towards my goal.

Devansh: Who or what has been the biggest influence in your chess career?
Naitik: My parents and family have been the biggest influence in my chess career. Their constant support and encouragement have always motivated me to keep improving and pushing myself.

Devansh: What are your upcoming tournaments?
Naitik: I’ll be playing in the Kanizsa Open and the Hungarian Championship 2026, Group A (>2200), very soon.

Final Ranking after 9 Rounds

Details

We hope to see Naitik scoring his remaining 2 IM Norms soon!