17-year-old Aksel Bu Kvaloy shared his impression of the victory over Ian Nepomniachtchi at Dole Open 2026. Aksel calls Nepo the best opponent he has ever beaten, and notes that he plays well as an outsider.

Aksel Bu Kvaloy

Aksel Bu Kvaloy

17-year-old Norwegian GM

“He is definitely the best player I have ever beaten in Classical chess. That was a lot of fun. One of the most remarkable events of my life.

I think he believed that it was impossible to lose from such a position. He tried to unbalance me because I had very little time left.

I thrive when I am in the outsider role. When I face such a high-rated opponent as Ian Nepomniachtchi, it gives me extra motivation.

Let’s see how good a chess player I can become!”

The Dole Open 2026 takes place from July 18 to 26 in Paris. Aksel Bu Kvaloy defeated Ian Nepomniachtchi in round 5 of the tournament. Aksel defeated Nepo by making two Great moves, and played the game with 93.3 accuracy. GM Aksel Bu Kvaloy is Norway’s No. 14 with 2483 Classical points.