R. Vaishali Makes History as First Indian Winner of Women's Candidates Tournament

In a historic moment for global chess, 24-year-old Indian Grandmaster R.

Vaishali has become the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament.

Held in Pegeia, Cyprus, the event tested the world's best players, and Vaishali’s journey was nothing short of remarkable.

Despite starting as the lowest-rated player and facing a difficult beginning with no wins in the first five rounds, she displayed incredible resilience.

Her tournament reached a thrilling conclusion in the final round, where she defeated Russian Grandmaster Kateryna Lagno with a brilliant performance in the Sicilian Dragon.

This victory earns her a spot to challenge reigning champion Ju Wenjun later in 2026.

Vaishali’s success highlights the rapid rise of Indian chess, a journey she shares with her brother, Praggnanandhaa, as the pair continues to break records.

With the backing of the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy and her dedicated family, Vaishali has firmly established herself as a titan of the game.

Her win marks a significant milestone in Indian sporting history, inspiring a new generation of players to dream big on the global stage.