Indian chess player R Vaishali achieved a significant milestone by emerging victorious in the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament held in Cyprus. This triumph not only marked her first-ever title win but also secured her a spot in the upcoming World Championship match. Vaishali, aged 24, had been overshadowed by her younger sibling, R Praggnanandhaa, but she shone brightly in the 2026 tournament, culminating in a composed victory in the final round.
Her remarkable performance has set the stage for a showdown with the reigning champion, Ju Wenjun of China, a prominent figure in women’s chess. Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa concluded his campaign with a draw against American chess star Hikaru Nakamura.
Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion, acknowledged the significance of Vaishali’s win, expressing pride in India’s representation in both the Open and Women’s World Championship matches. With D Gukesh already holding the Open world title, India’s prowess in elite chess circles continues to ascend.
Vaishali’s path to victory was far from straightforward. Initially lagging behind in the standings alongside Divya Deshmukh and Tan Zhongyi after five rounds of the 14-round tournament, she had to make a remarkable comeback in a fiercely competitive field.
Maintaining composure and consistency, Vaishali steadily improved her performance, staying within striking distance of the leaders as the tournament progressed. While her competitors faltered under pressure, Vaishali remained resolute, positioning herself as a strong contender heading into the crucial final rounds.
In the decisive last round, Vaishali found herself in a three-way battle for the title, tied at the top with Bibisara Assaubayeva from Kazakhstan, with Zhu Jiner of China in close pursuit. Demonstrating her mettle, Vaishali secured victory against Kateryna Lagno, sealing her triumph with a poised and strategic performance.
Her strategic play, particularly against formidable opponents like Lagno, Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Tan Zhongyi, underpinned her climb up the standings. Despite encountering setbacks against Zhu Jiner, Vaishali rebounded admirably, showcasing resilience and determination throughout the tournament.
Looking ahead, Vaishali’s focus now shifts to the World Championship match against Ju Wenjun, a formidable opponent with a strong track record in women’s chess. Vaishali’s success in Cyprus underscores her ability to thrive under pressure and compete at the highest level of the sport.
From humble beginnings in the tournament to claiming the coveted title, Vaishali’s journey exemplifies patience, resilience, and strategic timing. As she prepares for the next chapter in her chess career, the chess world eagerly anticipates her continued success and growth in the sport.