Humpy Clinches World Rapid Chess Title
India’s chess grandmaster Koneru Humpy has claimed the prestigious World Rapid Chess Championship title for the second time, cementing her place among the world’s finest chess players. On Sunday, Humpy triumphed over Indonesia’s Irene Sukandar in a thrilling finale to secure the victory.
This win adds to Humpy’s previous World Rapid Chess title, which she won in Georgia in 2019. At 37, Humpy becomes only the second player, after China’s Zhu Wenjun, to achieve this feat twice in the history of the tournament. She concluded the championship with an impressive score of 8.5 out of 11.
A National Inspiration
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Humpy on her achievement, calling her success a source of inspiration for millions.
Acknowledging Family Support
Reflecting on her journey, Humpy credited her family for their unwavering support. “This has been possible only because of my family,” she said, acknowledging her husband and parents, who manage responsibilities, including caring for her daughter, during her travels.
A Remarkable Feat at 37
Humpy shared her thoughts on the challenges of competing at the highest level at 37. “It’s not easy to become a world champion at this age. Maintaining motivation and staying strong when needed is tough as you get older, but I’m glad I was able to achieve it,” she said. Calling the victory “a surprise,” Humpy expressed her excitement and happiness over her accomplishment. Her win underscores her enduring talent and determination, further solidifying her legacy in the world of chess.