Indian Women Chess Players Make History in World Cup Quarter-Finals

Four Indian women chess players have made history by advancing to the quarter-finals of the FIDE Women’s World Chess Cup. This is the first instance where four players from a single country have reached the last eight in the tournament’s history, showcasing India’s growing prominence in the sport.

In Round Four of the competition, held on October 6, 2023, all four competitors—Koneru Humpy, Divya Deshmukh, Dronavalli Harika, and R Vaishali—successfully progressed through tie-break matches. Their performances not only highlight their individual skills but also reflect the strength of Indian chess on the global stage.

Divya Deshmukh and Koneru Humpy were the first to secure their spots in the quarter-finals. They each achieved victories with a score of 1.5-0.5, overcoming their opponents in tense matches. Deshmukh triumphed over China’s Zhu Jiner, while Humpy defeated Switzerland’s Alexandra Kosteniuk. These wins were pivotal, setting the tone for the rest of the round.

Following their successes, Dronavalli Harika faced off against Russia’s Kateryna Lagno. After four rapid games of 10 minutes each, Harika emerged victorious, adding another victory for the Indian contingent. Lastly, R Vaishali secured her place in the quarter-finals by defeating Kazakhstan’s Meruert Kamalidenova, triumphing after two blitz games lasting five minutes each.

This remarkable achievement not only underscores the players’ dedication and talent but also elevates the profile of women’s chess in India. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on these talented athletes as they compete for the title.

The FIDE Women’s World Chess Cup continues to be a significant platform, fostering competition among the best female chess players globally. With this historic accomplishment, the Indian team has undoubtedly made a mark in the ongoing tournament.