Rex Sinquefield, organizer of the Sinquefield Cup, says the US will welcome Armenian chess grandmaster Levon Aronian with open arms.

“Levon played in our first-ever Sinquefield Cup in 2013. I’ve come to know him over the years to be a fierce competitor and true gentleman. He represents the best of our sport,” said Rex Sinquefield, co-founder of the Saint Louis Chess Club. “When he came to us with interest in moving to St. Louis and representing the U.S., I could think of no one better. We welcome him with open arms.”

On Feb. 26, Aronian posted on his Facebook page and confirmed his decision to leave Armenia.