Awonder Liang: economics, enjoying chess, 2700-level skills | UP #14 скачать в хорошем качестве

Awonder Liang: economics, enjoying chess, 2700-level skills | UP #14

Awonder Liang is a chess grandmaster, currently ranked #24 in the world (Feb 2026). Growing up in Wisconsin, he broke various American records as a chess prodigy. In 2025, he graduated from the University of Chicago, where he studied economics and applied math. This interview was recorded on Jan 26, 2026. Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 0:20 - How much sacrifice does elite chess require? 5:38 - How to improve as a 2700-level player 9:21 - Economic and statistical concepts in pro chess 13:04 - Decisionmaking, Hikaru's skills, game strategy in chess 22:26 - Awonder's Substack post: streaks in chess, random walks, probability 29:21 - Playing against weaker opponents, tournament opportunities 34:58 - Awonder's chess style, fearlessness in chess 37:54 - Missed opportunities at university, future hopes 40:04 - Using engines effectively in chess 44:02 - Awonder's enjoyment of chess over time 48:14 - Outlook for 2026 49:33 - Thank you! Thumbnail photo credit: John Brezina