Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
India’s R Vaishali created history on Wednesday, becoming the first Indian to win the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament after a composed performance in the final round in Cyprus.
The 2026 title, secured on the Mediterranean shores, has earned Vaishali the right to challenge China’s reigning champion Ju Wenjun for the Women’s World Championship crown later this year.
Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand captured the significance of the moment, saying, “We will have one horse in both races.” With D Gukesh already the reigning Open World Champion, India will now have representation in both world title matches.
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Heading into the final round, Vaishali needed a result against Kateryna Lagno and also required Bibisara Assaubayeva to drop points. That opportunity came when Divya Deshmukh held Assaubayeva to a draw, ensuring the race remained open going into the final day.
Vaishali delivered under pressure. Playing with the white pieces in Round 14, she beat Lagno to seal the title and complete a strong campaign. She remained in control through key moments and did not allow the situation to affect her approach.
Her run in the tournament was built on consistency against top opposition. Vaishali recorded important wins over Lagno, Tan Zhongyi and Aleksandra Goryachkina, while also picking up crucial draws against players such as Anna Muzychuk.
Her only setbacks came against Zhu Jiner, who beat her twice during the tournament. On both occasions, Vaishali recovered quickly and stayed in contention, ensuring her campaign did not lose momentum.
Focus now shifts to the World Championship clash against Ju Wenjun, a five-time champion known for her consistency at the highest level. The match is expected to draw global attention, with a prize fund of €300,000 at stake.
By winning the Candidates, Vaishali has secured at least €28,000 in prize money. She also earned €2,200 for every half point scored during the tournament, adding to her total earnings from a landmark campaign.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
