Every chess position tells a story. Every game has a rhythm. And every tournament seems to have its own soundtrack. While watching the America's Cup 2026 in St. Louis, I began imagining what songs might represent the players and the dramatic moments of the event.
Irina Krush
Donny Osmond – "One Bad Apple"
Irina Krush played several very strong games during the tournament and reached winning positions more than once. But in time pressure a few critical mistakes turned victories into losses. Those single moments – those "bad apples" – changed the outcome of several games and led to an early exit from the event.
Alice Lee
Jefferson Airplane – "White Rabbit"
Alice Lee produced one of the most memorable moments of the tournament with her victory over Carissa Yip on the final day. Watching the drama of the game-1 unfold made me think of the famous line: "Go ask Alice."
Lee showed creativity, resilience, and fighting spirit throughout the event, continuing her rise as one of the strongest young players in American chess.
The Soundtrack of Chess
Chess may be played in silence, but every tournament has its own music. Each player, each game, and each turning point could be matched with a different song.
The America's Cup 2026 was no exception.