The 9th ACA Classical Chess Tournament – FIDE Rated, held at Arjun’s Chess Academy, Bahrain, from September 27 to October 3, 2025, concluded after seven intense rounds of classical battles. The event followed a Swiss system format with a time control of 60 minutes plus 30 seconds increment, testing both skill and endurance of the players.

The tournament witnessed many exciting games and commendable performances from young talents as well as experienced players.

Final Standings (Top 5):
1st- Dhruvi Shrikant Panigrahi – 6 points (Champion)
2nd- Arnav Singh Dewan – 6 points (Runner-up)
3rd- AFM Cabaya Joey – 5 points
4th- AFM Dela Cerna Janelle – 5 points
5th- Brayden Anand – 4 points

Dhruvi Shrikant Panigrahi emerged as the Champion, edging out Arnav Singh Dewan on tiebreaks. Both players displayed outstanding consistency, finishing with 6 points each. AFM Cabaya Joey and AFM Dela Cerna Janelle followed closely with strong 5-point finishes. Young ACA talent Brayden Anand also impressed with a top 5 finish.

The event once again highlighted the growing strength of classical chess in Bahrain, with players demonstrating deep calculation, discipline, and fighting spirit across all seven rounds.