Indian Chess Shines: Gukesh Becomes India’s Top Player, Humpy Wins Second World Rapid Title

 Indian chess continues to make global headlines as two of the country’s finest players, D. Gukesh and Koneru Humpy, achieve historic milestones. While 18-year-old Grandmaster Gukesh has become India’s highest-rated chess player, 37-year-old Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has reclaimed the Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship title for the second time. Their victories highlight India’s growing dominance in the world of chess.

Gukesh Becomes India’s No.1 Chess Player
Gukesh has overtaken Arjun Erigaisi to become India's top-ranked chess player in the latest FIDE world rankings. With a rating of 2784, he has surpassed Levon Aronian and several other elite players, making him one of the highest-rated players in the world. The global No.1 spot remains with Magnus Carlsen, who holds a rating of 2832.5.
The young prodigy solidified his position at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament in the Netherlands, where he delivered an outstanding performance. His victory over Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the fifth round played a crucial role in boosting his rankings. Additionally, Gukesh secured remarkable wins against top American players Hikaru Nakamura (2802) and Fabiano Caruana (2798), further proving his exceptional talent.

Key Highlights of Gukesh’s Tata Steel Chess Tournament Performance:
•    Defeated Vincent Keymer in the fifth round
•    Remained undefeated with three wins and two draws
•    Secured a 2.5-point lead over his closest Indian competitor
Koneru Humpy Becomes Two-Time World Rapid Champion
Meanwhile, in the world of women’s chess, Koneru Humpy has once again proven her supremacy. She won the 2024 Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship, making it her second title after her first victory in 2019. In a thrilling final round, she defeated Indonesia’s Irine Sukandar, cementing her place as one of the greatest female chess players in history.
At 37, Humpy secured 8.5 points in 11 rounds, maintaining a half-point lead over her closest competitor. She now ranks as the world’s second most successful female rapid chess player after China’s Ju Wenjun, who has won the title three times.
Humpy’s Career Achievements in the World Rapid Chess Championship:
•    2012: Bronze Medal
•    2019: Gold (Champion)
•    2024: Gold (Champion)
Following her victory, Humpy expressed her joy, stating, “Winning a world championship at 37 is not easy. But this title means a lot to me. It is a reminder that hard work and experience can still lead to success.”
Leaders and Chess Legends Congratulate Humpy and Gukesh
The achievements of Gukesh and Humpy have garnered widespread appreciation from Indian leaders and chess legends.
•    Prime Minister Narendra Modi:
“Congratulations to Koneru Humpy for winning the 2024 Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship. Her remarkable achievements continue to inspire generations. This victory cements her legacy as one of India’s greatest chess players.”
•    N. Chandrababu Naidu (Former Andhra Pradesh CM):
“Humpy’s dedication and talent in chess make India proud. Her second world title is a testament to her brilliance.”
•    Vishwanathan Anand (Former World Chess Champion):
“Koneru Humpy has once again shown why she is one of the best. Her exceptional performance in rapid chess is an inspiration for Indian chess players.”
With Gukesh’s rise to India’s No.1 spot and Humpy’s second world title, Indian chess is entering a golden era. These historic achievements mark a new chapter of dominance for Indian players in global chess tournaments.