India continues to excel in the global chess arena as Koneru Humpy secures her second world rapid chess championship title. The 37-year-old achieved this remarkable feat by scoring 8.5 points and defeating Indonesia’s Irene Kharisma Sukander in the decisive 11th round held at Wall Street, New York.
Humpy’s latest victory adds another milestone to her illustrious career, having first won the World Rapid Chess Championship in Moscow in 2019. With this triumph, she becomes one of the rare players, alongside China’s Ju Wenjun, to win the prestigious title twice.
Her victory follows the recent success of Dommaraju Gukesh, who brought glory to India by defeating China’s Ding Liren to claim the world championship title. Hailing from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Humpy’s achievements mark a fitting end to a stellar year for Indian chess.
Humpy’s journey in chess began at the age of six under the guidance of her father, Koneru Ashok, who was a state champion and college teacher. She won her first national chess title at the age of eight and became the youngest Grand Master at 15. Although she took a break from competitive chess for family life, Humpy made a remarkable comeback, clinching the world rapid chess title in Moscow. Her recent victory solidifies her legacy as one of India’s greatest chess champions.
