Tag: Indian Chess

Sports

Koneru Humpy Scripts History at FIDE Women’s World Cup, Becomes First Indian Woman in Semi-Finals

allycaralgoa

In a landmark moment for Indian chess and women in sports, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has become the first Indian woman ever to enter the semi-finals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup. This remarkable achievement not only reaffirms her place among the global elite but also lights the path for aspiring female chess players across the country.

A former World Rapid Chess Champion and one of India’s most decorated players, Koneru Humpy has consistently showcased her prowess on the global stage. Her path to the semi-finals was marked by tenacity, calculated brilliance, and composed aggression—traits that have become synonymous with her game.

The FIDE Women’s World Cup, one of the most prestigious events in international chess, draws the world’s best minds. Humpy’s performance so far underscores India’s rising prominence in chess and continues a legacy pioneered by legends like Viswanathan Anand.

This accomplishment is more than just a tournament milestone—it’s a testament to women’s growing strength in competitive chess, traditionally dominated by men. With each calculated move, Koneru Humpy not only wins games but also inspires a new wave of young girls to pick up the board and believe in their potential.

As she prepares for her semi-final clash, the entire nation stands behind her. Regardless of the outcome, she has already made history—and inspired history to follow.

Bravo, Grandmaster Humpy. India salutes you! 🇮🇳♟️

Sports

One Step to Go: Nitish Belurkar Inches Closer to Grandmaster Title

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa’s rising chess talent Nitish Belurkar has achieved his second Grandmaster (GM) norm at the 5th International Festival of La Plagne Soleil Masters held in France — marking a major milestone in his journey to becoming a GM.

🎯 What’s the big achievement?

Nitish scored an unbeaten 7 points in 9 rounds, finishing third in a competitive field of 171 players from 23 countries, and earned a performance rating of 2624. With this, he not only secured his second GM norm but also gained 19 Elo points, bringing his live rating to 2472.

Now, he’s just one norm and 28 Elo points away from achieving the title of Grandmaster — the highest honour in the world of chess.

👏 Highlights of the Tournament

  • ✅ Win over top seed GM Jules Moussard (2591)
  • ✅ Held strong draws with GMs Iniyan Pa, Christian Bauer, Yuri Solodovnichenko, and Joseph Girrel
  • ✅ Wins against Van Volsem Merlijn, FM Hald Falkesggard Jeppe, Damien Riberie, and FM Fantin Ludwig
  • ✅ Third-place finish, behind champion GM Yuri Solodovnichenko (7.5 points)

This performance follows Nitish’s first GM norm, which he had achieved earlier at the Vezerkepzo GM tournament in Hungary.

💬 A Goan Star in the Making

Nitish Belurkar’s success story is not just about individual brilliance — it reflects the growing strength of Indian and Goan chess on the global stage. His composure, consistency, and tenacity have made him one of the most watched young players in the country.

As the chess world turns its attention to his next tournaments, Nitish carries with him the hopes of becoming Goa’s next Grandmaster.