Israeli grandmaster Boris Gelfand commented on his victory against Armenia’s Levon Aronian in the 9th round of Candidates Tournament, ongoing in London.

“I think it was more difficult for me because I played against my close friend, who is leading the tournament. But we're professionals and we have to play our utmost in each game.”

“I lost to Levon in the first round. Now I managed to beat him. I may say we exchanged presents,” Gelfand joked.

Aronian currently comes 2nd with 5.5 points, Gelfand shares 4-5 places. Norway’s Magnus Carlsen leads the tournament with 6 points, Candidates Tournament official website reported.