“We have many top players competing in the Canadian Open this weekend,” writes Canadian Go Association president James Sedgwick. “But to me, four stand out as favorites.” Here’s his analysis:
Ivan Lo: The 2024 Canadian Open winner (on SOS) returns as a strong favorite. Since arriving in Canada around 2021/2022, Lo has made his mark by winning the Toronto Go Spectacular—
against a top North American field—and continuing to rack up victories in Canadian tournaments.
Brady Zhang: A rising force in open competition, Zhang recently represented Canada at the 2025 World Amateur Go Championship, where he finished a solid 10th. A former youth standout, he previously represented North America at the Globis Cup world youth tournament.
Shengda (Leo) Tan: Still a teenager, Tan's 2024 Redmond Cup victory and strong finish in the North American Masters show he’s a serious contender. After tying for first in 2024, he’s back and hungry for his first Canadian Open title.
Dohyup Kim (European 8D): Although originally from Korea, Kim has long competed in Europe, where he’s notched numerous tournament wins and top finishes. Now adding North American events to his calendar, his performance against this elite Canadian field will be closely watched.
All six rounds of the Canadian Open will be streamed live by the American Go E-Journal. Catch the action on our YouTube and Twitch channels. Livestreams are expected to begin at 10a ET on Saturday, and 9a ET on Sunday and Monday. Commentary will begin during the 1p livestreams, featuring Michael Chen 1P, Paige Lemaster 6D and Bill Lin 1P.
photos: Ivan Lo (top left); Leo Tan (top right); Dohyup Kim (bottom right); Brady Zhang (bottom left)