2025 African Championship: Bilel Bellahcene and Shrook Wafa claim titles
GM Bilel Bellahcene (Algeria) and WGM Shrook Wafa (Egypt) are the newly crowned African chess champions. The #1 Algerian, Bellahcene edged out to top-seeded Egyptian GMs to secure his maiden title, while Wafa captured her fifth African crown, repeating her successes of 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2019. The 2025 African Chess Championships (Open and Women’s sections), organized in cooperation with the International Chess Confederation (ICC) and the African Chess Federation, were held at the Pyramids Park Hotel in the Pyramids region from May 13–20. Both the Open and Women’s events were 9-round Swiss tournaments played with classical time control, bringing together top players from 17 African countries vying for individual titles. The Open tournament was fiercely contested and evolved into a thrilling race among the rating favorites. Top-seeded GM Bassem Amin (Egypt) took the lead after Round 6 and maintained it until the penultimate round, when he lost to fellow Egyptian GM Ahmed Adly, who caught up with him. Meanwhile, fourth-seed Bellahcene capitalized on the opportunity by defeating GM Ahmed Alaa Ahmed, entering the final round a half-point ahead of the two Egyptian grandmasters. In the final round, Bellahcene (pictured below) achieved a winning position against IM Hamed Wafa, but ultimately settled for a draw. With Amin and Adly both winning their final games, all three players tied for first place. However, Bellahcene secured the championship title on tiebreaks, thanks to the highest average rating of his opponents. Amin took silver, while Adly completed the podium with bronze. Final standings – Open 1 GM Bellahcene, Bilel ALG 2504 7 2 GM Amin, Bassem EGY 2649 7 3 GM Adly, Ahmed EGY 2597 7 4 IM Wafa, Hamed EGY 2367 6½ 5 FM Fadi, Marko EGY 2244 6 6 FM George Samir, David EGY 2346 6 7 IM Ezat, Mohamed EGY 2296 6 8 GM Fawzy, Adham EGY 2513 6 9 Ahmed, Moustafa Elsayed EGY 2079 6 10 FM Yousry, Salah EGY 2256 6 Complete final standings – Open Section In the Women’s event, Shrook Wafa (pictured below, right) delivered a dominant performance, scoring an impressive 8/9. She remained undefeated throughout the tournament, conceding only two draws. The 2023 African Champion, Lina Nassr, finished second with 7/9 to claim the silver medal, while 15-year-old Jana Mohamed Zaki caused a minor sensation by capturing bronze and increasing her rating by 98 points. Final standings – Women 1 WGM Wafa, Shrook EGY 2189 8 2 WIM Nassr, Lina ALG 2029 7 3 Mohamed Zaki, Jana EGY 1891 6½ 4 WGM Wafa, Shahenda EGY 2085 6½ 5 ACM Alaa, Dema EGY 1828 5½ 6 WIM Romany, Joy EGY 1932 5½ 7 WCM Ampaire, Shakira UGA 1784 5½ 8 WIM February, Jesse Nikki RSA 2052 5 9 El Barbry, Sarah MAR 1841 5 10 WCM Bwalya Mulwale, Lubuuto ZAM 1954 5 Complete final standings – Women’s Section Photos: Egyptian Chess Federation
FIDE Delegation applauds Jamaica Chess Federation for leadership in social impact through chess
Kingston, Jamaica – May 20, 2025 — A high-level delegation from FIDE concluded a successful visit to Jamaica from May 17–19, commending the Jamaica Chess Federation (JCF) for its groundbreaking social chess initiatives and longstanding leadership in the Caribbean region. Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, was welcomed to the region by CCA President José Carrillo and CCA Vice President Francisco Cruz. The delegation met with JCF President Peter Myers and key members of the Council, including IM Jomo Pitterson, Maxine Brown, Richard Shaw, Ian Wilkinson KC, and WIM Deborah Richards-Porter. Meetings were also held with Jamaica Olympic and Paralympic Association President Christopher Samuda, representatives from the Department of Correctional Services, and leaders of the Jamaica Society for the Blind. Meeting and demonstration at the Society of the Blind During the visit, the delegation observed the federation’s impactful community outreach programs, including its initiatives in correctional facilities and work with the visually impaired. “The trip to Jamaica was amazing! The federation is powered by people who are not just passionate about chess, but about using it to change lives. Truly a golden team,” said Dana Reizniece. “In this Year of Social Chess, Jamaica’s work with the blind and incarcerated communities exemplifies the very heart of our mission, to make chess accessible and impactful for all.” JCF President Peter Myers expressed gratitude for the visit, noting, “This was a moment to show that chess in Jamaica is more than competition, it’s a tool for transformation. We are committed to expanding access to all communities and deeply appreciate FIDE and CCA’s support.” CCA President Jose Carrillo added, “Jamaica has a rich history of leadership in chess across the Caribbean, and they continue to set the bar in 2025 for FIDE’s Year of Social Chess. The federation’s dedication to inclusion and innovation serves as an inspiration for the entire region. What we’ve witnessed here is a living model of how chess can change lives.” Fransisco Cruz (CCA VP), Jose Carrillo (CCA President) and Dana meeting with the Jamaican Chess Federation As a key outcome of the trip, CCA Vice President Francisco Cruz will return to Jamaica in June to lead a School Instructor Seminar and continue engaging with the JCF’s social initiatives as part of his work with the FIDE Diversity Commission. The delegation departed with renewed inspiration and a commitment to spotlight Jamaica’s efforts as a blueprint for socially impactful chess development.
First Continental-America workshop for Chess for Freedom program held in Mexico
The First Continental (America) workshop for Chess for Freedom program, organized by FIDE, FIDE America, and Mexican National Chess Federation, was held in Mexico City on May 15, 2025. Lic. Raul Hernandez Hernandez, President of the Mexico Chess Federation FENAMAC welcomed the participants and expressed appreciation for their attendance. Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, introduced FIDE major social projects for the 2025 Social Chess year. In addition to the Chess for Freedom project—a true leader in international participation—FIDE supports numerous other social programs, including Chess for Hope, Chess for Protection, Chess for Recovery, and Chess for Longevity. FIDE Social Commission provides more details about those projects. Lic. Jose Antonio Carrilo, President of the FIDE America, introduced numerous social chess projects across the Continent, such as Chess for Connections in Canada, Chess for Life in Colombia, and Chess for Freedom in El Salvador. In his presentation, Mikhail Korenman representing the Cook County (Chicago) Sheriff Organization and a Council for FIDE Social Commission, provided an overview of the Chess for Freedom project’s history and reported that 51 countries are currently involved. He also shared findings from a research study conducted by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office on the potential outcomes of the Chess for Freedom (chess for prisoners) program. FIDE Arbiter Jose Manuel Barradas presented the history and current status of the Chess for Freedom project in Mexico. Mexico just completed the Third National Championship among the prisoners, with 17 teams represented Federal and local correctional institutions across the country. Dr. Renato Sales Heredia, a Former National Security Commissioner of the Government of Mexico, discussed the positive impact of chess in prisons in Mexico. FM Alejandra Zavata Gatindo, Administrative Manager of the Salvadoran Chess Federation, shared insights on team preparation in El Salvador and described how the Chess for Freedom program is expanding in the country. The following day, the participants traveled to the Federal Female Prison CPS Morelos 16. Organized by FIDE, the Continental America Championship for prisoners was officiated by the IA Nebojsa Baralic and IA Ana Srebrnic El Salvador Male and Female teams, the winners of the Continental America Championship El Salvador’s male and female teams won the Open and Women’s sections, respectively, while the Trinidad and Tobago youth team claimed victory in the Youth section. More details about the championship will be provided in a follow-up report covering all continental championships.
FIDE World Junior Rapid and Blitz Championships 2025: Registration now open
FIDE and the Peruvian Chess Sports Federation invite all FIDE member federations to participate in the World Junior U20 Rapid & Blitz Championships 2025. The championships will be held in Lima, the capital of Peru, from September 22 (arrival) to September 29 (departure) 2025. Each federation can register an unlimited number of players. The winners of the World Junior U20 Rapid and Blitz Championship 2024 and the first 10 players on the starting list (10 from the open list and 10 from the girls’ list) will receive free accommodation in a double room and full board. FIDE member Federations should proceed with the registration of their participants. The registration deadline is July 22, 2025. E-mail: juniorrapidblitz@fide.com Official website (coming soon): juniorrapidblitz2025.fide.com Regulations, schedule, visa information (PDF)
Pietrasanta and La Versiliana become global chess landmarks
From June 2 to 15, La Versiliana will host Chess Roads – an exhibition of 40 rare and original chess sets from Asia and Europe. On June 1, the event will open with a match between Faustino Oro and Viswanathan Anand: the youngest titled chess player in the world versus the legendary former World Champion. Chess Roads – The Exhibition Chess Roads – The Exhibition at La Versiliana, Italy, invites you on a mesmerizing journey across continents and centuries. On display are 40 rare and original chess sets from Asia and Europe crafted in ivory, bronze, and wood, spanning from the 1700s to today. This is not just a showcase of objects, but a journey into the extraordinary variety of forms, materials, and meanings chess has taken on through different cultures. Curated by Corrado Ciano, one of Italy’s leading collectors, and Giovanni Longo, a visionary cultural designer, the exhibition is a journey through aesthetics, history, and creativity. It culminates in a dramatic finale; a chessboard designed by renowned artist Enrico Baj, symbolizing the boundless creativity of chess. Ciano, born in Turin and based in Milan, discovered the game through his father and became captivated by it during the legendary 1972 Fischer–Spassky match. What began as a passion evolved into a remarkable collection, now revealed to the public for the very first time. Giovanni Longo adds a contemporary and symbolic dimension to the exhibition, enriching the display with works that explore the relationship between art and play. The exhibition culminates with an iconic chessboard created by Enrico Baj, symbolising the creative freedom and artistic depth of the chess world. Clash of Generations Preceding the exhibition, on Sunday, June 1, a spectacular match will take place between 10-year-old Argentine prodigy Faustino Oro and 5x World Champion Viswanathan Anand. A symbolic and thrilling “David vs. Goliath” encounter, the match recalls some of the most epic generational duels in chess history. Organized by Unichess and conceived by Grandmaster Roberto Mogranzini and passionate chess lover Andrea Bocelli, the match will shine an international spotlight on this corner of Tuscany. Chess.com, the global platform with over 160 million registered users, will broadcast the match in three languages, reaching a worldwide audience of enthusiasts. The event opens with a carriage parade from Forte dei Marmi and Pietrasanta to Villa La Versiliana—symbolically crossing the territory that will host this celebration of chess, the third most played sport in India and one of the most practiced globally, with over 650 million players. Following the match, the winner will face twenty guests in a simultaneous exhibition. The entire event will be hosted by none other than Andrea Bocelli, a Versilia local and chess aficionado, who will welcome guests to this exclusive, invitation-only event for a select international and Italian audience of chess lovers. Organisers, partners, and public authorities have expressed deep enthusiasm for the project: “Since its beginning—now in its 46th edition—La Versiliana has offered refined entertainment, reflection, dialogue, and constant innovation for both locals and visitors who choose Versilia as their beloved destination. It’s in the DNA of one of Italy’s longest-running festivals to seek renewal. The chess world and its sporting culture represent a new path we’re excited to explore—looking to the future and working with excellence. That’s why we immediately embraced Andrea Bocelli and Roberto Mogranzini’s idea to organize an exhibition of exquisite chessboards and to welcome world-class players and amateurs from around the globe. The aim is to make Pietrasanta and Versilia an international chess hub. I thank Andrea Bocelli and Roberto Mogranzini for creating this opportunity to engage stakeholders and chess lovers worldwide in our cultural journey.”– Paola Rovellini, President of the Versiliana Foundation “Never before, in this fragile historical moment, has sports culture served as such a hopeful bridge between people and communities. The Municipality of Pietrasanta is proud to support this beautiful initiative at La Versiliana, a cultural beacon for over 40 summers. The exhibition will be appreciated by residents and tourists alike, and the match—broadcast globally—will be a remarkable promotional vehicle for Versilia. Pietrasanta confirms itself as a cultural powerhouse.”– Alberto Stefano Giovannetti, Mayor of Pietrasanta “What better place to merge sport and culture? For Andrea and me, Versilia and its festival were the natural choice. This will be a unique event for those who view chess not just as a game, but as an intellectual discipline uniting art, science, and strategy. The match between legends Vishy Anand and Faustino Oro will recall epic past duels like Kasparov vs. Carlsen, and the exhibition—curated by Corrado Ciano and Giovanni Longo—will be an aesthetic journey through time. The final piece, a chessboard by Enrico Baj, pays tribute to Pietrasanta’s devotion to contemporary art.” – Roberto Mogranzini, President of Unichess “As President of the Italian Chess Federation, I’m proud to endorse the Pietrasanta, Versilia Chess Roads project, which celebrates chess as both a competitive sport and an international showcase of art and culture. The exhibition of historic boards from the 1700s to today and the legendary match between Viswanathan Anand and the young prodigy Faustino Oro show how Italy can tell its story to the world through the universal language of chess—with elegance, history, and passion.”– Luigi Maggi, President of the Italian Chess Federation “The Clash of Generations match between Anand and Oro and the exhibition of some of the world’s finest chessboards, held at La Versiliana, are important for many reasons—not least for offering families a unique chance to spend meaningful time together. I hope to attend this beautiful initiative, and I thank and congratulate Mayor Alberto Giovannetti, Paola Rovellini, and the entire Versiliana Foundation for this inspiring project.”– Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism “I’m thrilled that a special project I’ve envisioned with friends has come to life in the best way. It combines my passion for chess with my love for my Versilia. In Marina di Pietrasanta, we’ll host a private match celebrating the encounter—and clash—between generations: a grand chess duel between two extraordinary champions. The world will be watching Versilia. Alongside
Praggnanandhaa wins Superbet Chess Classic Romania
Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu captured his maiden Grand Chess Tour title at the Superbet Chess Classic Romania, emerging victorious in a thrilling three-way playoff against Alireza Firouzja and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. The 19-year-old from Chennai secured his second major title of the year, further consolidating his top position in the FIDE Circuit 2025. The 2025 GCT Superbet Chess Classic Romania took place in Bucharest from May 7–16, featuring ten elite grandmasters. It was a tight race from the start, with no clear leader for most of the tournament. However, after a crucial win against Wesley So in the penultimate round, Praggnanandhaa pulled ahead, entering the final round half a point ahead of Fabiano Caruana, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, and Alireza Firouzja. In the final round, Praggnanandhaa secured a solid draw against Levon Aronian, guaranteeing at least a share of first place. Three players had a chance to catch up, but only two succeeded. Facing World Champion Gukesh D with the black pieces, Caruana was unable to generate winning chances and settled for a draw. In contrast, Firouzja, taking significant risks against Bogdan-Daniel Deac, found himself in a worse position—but his persistence paid off. Deac cracked on move 52, blundering the game away. Meanwhile, Vachier-Lagrave capitalized on a misstep by Jan-Krzysztof Duda in a complex position, securing a full point and joining Firouzja and Praggnanandhaa in a three-way tie for first. To determine the champion, a single round-robin playoff was held with a 5-minute + 2-second increment time control. The first game between Firouzja and Praggnanandhaa was a complex battle in Giuoco Piano which ended in a draw. In the second game Vachier-Lagrave and Firouzja split a point after Alireza held his ground on the black side of the Caro-Kann. The third game Praggnanandhaa vs. Vachier-Lagrave proved to be decisive. In an endgame with a pair of rooks and the queens Maxim first missed a chance to trade the rooks (likely leading to a draw) and just three moves later committed the decisive mistake. Praggnanandhaa seized the opportunity, clinching the win and the title. Photos: Lennart Ootes
World Schools Team Championship 2025: Registration is open
FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) invite all FIDE member federations to participate in the World Schools Team Championship 2025 (WSTC). The competition will take place in Washington, D.C./Alexandria, USA, from August 2 (arrival) to August 7 (departure), 2025. Each team must consist of four main players, one reserve, and one non-playing captain. Where possible, a team shall include both boys and girls, and at least two players born in 2012 or later. National federations are responsible for verifying that participating children are enrolled in the school they represent. Participation is limited: the first 45 teams registered by national federations will be accepted, with priority given to teams selected through national school competitions. An additional 15 wildcard spots will be allocated by FIDE, ISCF, and the host federation, bringing the total to 60 teams. These 60 teams will receive free accommodation, consisting of two twin rooms and two single rooms per delegation. The organizers will purchase flight tickets directly after a team’s participation is officially confirmed via email. The registration deadline is July 1, 2025. Teams can register using the online form at: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/registration2025/ FIDE member federations will be able to update registration details via an edit link. In special cases—for example, if a national championship has not yet taken place—federations may request an extension to submit player names after July 1, subject to Organizing Committee approval. Educational conference Smart Moves Summit The Smart Moves Summit is an international education conference that explores how chess sharpens minds, fosters creativity, and transforms learning—both in and beyond the classroom. Held in Washington, D.C., August 4–5, 2025, alongside the World Schools Team Championship, the summit brings together teachers, parents, school leaders, researchers, edtech innovators, chess-related businesses, marketing professionals, officials, and other enthusiasts from over 20 countries. Expect inspiring keynotes from top chess influencers, visionary educators, and thought leaders in cognitive science. Participate in practical teacher trainings, interactive panels, and global school partnerships—all centered around how chess builds confidence, critical thinking, and deeper learning in today’s classrooms. The Smart Moves Summit is where the future of education meets the timeless strategy of chess. It’s a space for bold ideas, practical tools, and global collaboration, with the child at the center. In a world facing educational inequality and rapid change, chess offers a powerful, inclusive path to academic success and lifelong skills—for every student, everywhere. The conference is organized by the International School Chess Federation and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, under the patronage of FIDE. Contact e-mail: worldschoolteam@fide.com Official website: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com INVITATION LETTER (PDF)
Asian Championship 2025: Daneshvar Bardiya and Song Yuxin crowned champions
Asian Chess Federation president Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifah Al Nahyan (right) and Mongolian Chess Federation President Gombojav Zandanshatar (left) award medals to the top three placers, champion GM Bardiya Daneshvar of Iran, runner-up GM Nihal Sarin of India and third placer Shamsiddin Vokhidov of Uzbekistan GM Daneshvar Bardiya (Iran) and IM Song Yuxin (China) emerged as the winners of the 2025 Asian Chess Championship. Both the Open and Women’s competitions—nine-round Swiss tournaments—took place from May 6–15 at the Danat Resort Hotel in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, bringing together over 250 players from 38 countries. In the Open tournament, it was a tight race until Round 6, when 12th seed Daneshvar Bardiya seized the lead and never looked back. After a crucial victory over Abhimanyu Puranik of India in the penultimate round, he entered the final round with a score of 7/8, a full point ahead of his closest competitors. Mongolian Chess Federation President Gombojav Zandanshatar made the ceremonial first move in the game between Nihal Sarin and Daneshvar Bardiya, assisted by Asian Chess Federation General Secretary Hisham Al Taher and Organizing Committee Executive Director IM Sami Khader. Despite losing in the final round to top seed Nihal Sarin, who caught up to him with 7/9, Daneshvar claimed gold thanks to the superior average rating of his opponents. Sarin took silver, while Shamsiddin Vokhidov secured the bronze, edging out five players (all with 6.5/9) on tiebreaks. Daneshvar had previously qualified for the World Cup from the Zone 3.1 Zonals. Therefore, the next ten players in the Asian Individual Championship qualified into the FIDE World Cup, namely Sarin, Vokhidov and 4th to 11th placers GM Ivan Zemlyanskii (FID), Indians GMs Pa Iniyan, Rithvik Raja, S.L. Narayanan, M. Pranesh and IM G.B. Harshavardhan, GM Sergei Lobanov (FID) and GM Murali Karhikeyan (IND). Final Standings – Open: The Women’s section was an even more tightly contested tournament, with as many as seven players vying for gold going into the final round. Vantika Agrawal (India) defeated leader Bat-Erdene Mungunzul (Mongolia) to catch up at the top. Meanwhile, IM Song Yuxin (China) crushed the French Defense of IM Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova (Uzbekistan) in just 32 moves. WGM Xeniya Balabayeva (Kazakhstan) also pulled off an important win over Munguntuul Batkhuyag. As a result, four players tied for first place. Song Yuxin captured the title based on the highest average rating of her opponents. Using the same tiebreaker, Mungunzul and Balabayeva claimed silver and bronze, respectively. Song and Mungunzul qualified for the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 which will be held this July in Batumi, Georgia. Final Standings – Women: The closing ceremony featured ACF President Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifah Al Nahyan, who extended heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of this prestigious event—including organizing committees, technical teams, administrative staff, and volunteers. He also congratulated all the winners and those who qualified for the FIDE World Cup, wishing them the best as ambassadors of Asia on the world stage. Sheikh Sultan took the opportunity to announce the signing of an agreement between the Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club and the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to launch the FIDE Al Ain ACMG Academy. This global academy aims to elevate chess worldwide, nurture talent across all continents, and provide world-class training under top international coaches, following best practices and global standards. Services will be delivered in ten languages. Photos: Asian Chess Federation Official website: asianchess.com/
Tickets for the 2025 FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Team Championships go on sale
Get ready for an exhilarating week of chess at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Team Championships, happening in London from June 10–16! Hosted at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith, this event brings together nearly 60 teams from around the globe, featuring top grandmasters, rising stars, and passionate amateurs. Experience the thrill of fast-paced games, where brilliant tactics, unexpected blunders, and intense time scrambles keep everyone on the edge of their seats. Emotions run high as players race against the clock, making split-second decisions that could change the game’s outcome. What makes this championship unique is its team format. Each team comprises 6 to 9 players, including at least one female player and one recreational player (rated below 2000 Elo), promoting inclusivity and diversity in the competition. Teams can represent clubs, federations, cities, universities, or even be formed by friends coming together for the love of the game. With that, the roster is headlined by super teams led by your favourite super grandmasters – from Hikaru Nakamura to Vishy Anand. The tournament kicks off with the Rapid competition from June 11–13, featuring a 12-round Swiss format with a time control of 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move. Following that, the Blitz tournament takes place on June 14–15, introducing a two-stage structure: a round-robin pool stage and an exciting knockout phase for the top 16 teams, with games played at 3 minutes plus a 2-second increment per move. Flexible ticket options starting at £30: There are a variety of ticket options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re interested in catching a single rapid round, immersing yourself in a full day of matches, experiencing the entire event, or enjoying premium amenities with hospitality passes, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, exclusive passes to the closing party offer a chance to celebrate with players and fellow fans. To explore all the ticket options and secure your spot at this exciting event, visit tickets.fide.com For more details about the event, visit the official website: worldrapidblitzteams2025.fide.com
WGP Austria R09: Anna Muzychuk wins in Austria but misses Candidates spot
Anna Muzychuk claimed a bittersweet victory in the final leg of the Women’s Grand Prix. Despite sharing first place, it wasn’t enough to secure a slot in the Candidates Tournament. With the overall Grand Prix points tallied, Zhu Jiner emerged as the winner of the 2024/2025 series, with Aleksandra Goryachkina taking the second qualifying spot for the Candidates. Spanning six tournaments from Europe to India and back, with 23 players, the 2024/2025 Women’s Grand Prix concluded with Zhu Jiner atop the standings and Aleksandra Goryachkina securing the second spot for the 2026 Candidates. Anna Muzychuk is third. Drama in Grosslobming All five games saw sharp positions and tough struggles – a deserving end to a cycle of six spectacular tournaments in women’s chess. It was a make-or-break day for Anna Muzychuk. A win as White against Vaishali Rameshbabu in the final round in Austria would seal a hat-trick of triumphs: sole victory in the tournament, the overall win in the 2024/2025 FIDE Women’s Grand Prix Series, and a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament (edging out Aleksandra Goryachkina who was in the lead). But all of it hinged on this one game. The game saw the French Defence – one of the oldest and most solid openings in chess. Anna managed to win a pawn and create a passer on the a-file, which offered her some chances. On the other hand, Vaishali had compensation in the activity of her pieces. The position was even until the first move after the time control, when Vaishali gave a chance to White. Muzychuk just played h5. Her king and queen pinned to h2, she had to look for an opportunity to press on. The best choice for Black was to take on h5, but she played …41.Kf6? 42.hxg6 hxg6 Now White should have moved her king, either to h3 or – a computer move – h1, opening the attack on g6. Instead, Anna went for Qe1 and a few more moves down the road the game ended in a draw. By this point, Zhu had already drawn her game with Alexandra Kosteniuk (being completely lost at one point, in the endgame), and Tan spoiled a winning position against Muzychuk to end up in a tie. This meant that Anna Muzychuk would share first place with Zhu, but emerge first because she played more games with the black pieces. When a victory in the tournament isn’t enough After her final game, Anna – the winner of the Women’s Grand Prix in Austria – stood silently in front of the playing hall, gazing in the distance. The scene told the story. She was sad and disappointed, on the brink of crying. Had she won, she would have been in sole first. Had Kosteniuk played the right move in the endgame against Zhu, she would have won, and then a draw would have sufficed for Anna to take sole first place. Despite winning two out of three Grand Prix she played in (in Cyprus and in Austria), Anna didn’t qualify for the Candidates. When asked how she feels, Anna Muzychuk responded: “It has never been so sad to win an event”. Despite emerging in first place, Anna Muzychuk failed toclaim sole victory, which meant she did not get all of the 130 points needed to clinch the spot in the Candidates. Despite being very emotional, as a true professional, Anna Muzychuk patiently waited after the game and gave an interview which will be remembered for one line: “I won the last two Grand Prix tournaments, but still it wasn’t enough to qualify [for the Candidates] and that’s the sad thing about it.” China’s Zhu Jiner wins the Women’s Grand Prix The day ultimately belonged to China’s Zhu Jiner. She came to Austria with 235 points. Zhu had the best chance to overtake Goryachkina for first place in the WGP and in the end, tying for first place in Austria, she succeeded. “I’m very happy with my performance and how I played. I have also learnt a lot and I enjoyed it,” said Zhu. Zhu played the final round game with Alexandra Kosteniuk. This match was important for Zhu – she had to win to stand a fair chance of taking first place in the event. But doing that against a former Women’s World Champion and seasoned player like Kosteniuk is not an easy task. Zhu opted for the Nimzo-Indian Defence and got a very comfortable position. By move 16, the queens and a pair of minor pieces were off the board and Black reached equality. White had a worse pawn structure, but the active knight on f5 outweighed this shortcoming. After a couple of Zhu’s mistakes, Alexandra got an overwhelming position, but let her advantage slip away with one careless move. After 46.Nxg4 hxg4 47.h6 (the evaluation is +6 in White’s favor as Black’s king can’t reach the a8-square after giving up the knight for White’s h-pawn) Zhu most likely would have lost, opening a clear path to Anna Muzychuk to first place in the tournament and a spot in the Candidates! However, Alexandra played 46.Bb2? and after 46…Nxe3 47.Kxe4 Nd5+ the game was eventually drawn. Tan Zhongyi in third place after dropping a victory Tan Zhongyi completely misplayed a winning position against former women’s world champion Mariya Muzychuk, throwing away a chance to tie for the first place. In the Slav, Black (Muzychuk) had two doubled pawns on the b-file, but the position was roughly even. However, time-trouble kicked in for Mariya who ended up a piece down. White is completely winning. But the conversion did not go well at all. On the contrary. 34.Rb1 34.Bxe5 with the idea of 34…Rxa3 35.d6 was even stronger. 34…Ng5 35.Bc4 Rh3 36.d6+! Ke8 37.Bb5 Kf7 38.dxe7 White is still winning. To top it all, Mariya was in significant time trouble, while Tan had more than an hour on the clock. However, as the game progressed, Tan completely lost her way and Black got counterplay, with her rook and pawns