Indian chess sensation Vantika Agrawal has made a remarkable start at the FIDE Women’s World Cup, securing a decisive victory against former women’s world champion Anna Ushenina in their first game.
A Breakthrough Win for Vantika Agrawal
Vantika Agrawal, an International Master with a rating of 2377, delivered a significant upset by defeating Ukraine’s Anna Ushenina (rated 2413) in the opening game of their second-round match. This highly anticipated encounter took place in Batumi, Georgia, marking a strong start for the young Indian player.
Ushenina held the women’s world champion title from 2012 to 2013 and has frequently surpassed the 2500 rating mark during her extensive career. In contrast, Vantika, still early in her career, has a peak rating of 2435, making this win particularly impressive.
The Decisive Moves
Vantika, playing with the white pieces, skillfully navigated the game, forcing Ushenina to resign after just 36 moves. The endgame saw a fascinating position where Ushenina appeared to be up a pawn and a knight.
However, Vantika’s strategic brilliance shone through as she offered to trade her queen. Had Ushenina accepted, Vantika would have recaptured with a pawn, which was then poised to advance and promote, rendering further play futile for her opponent.
Vantika’s Reaction and Preparation
“It’s an amazing feeling,” Vantika beamed in an interview with FIDE’s official channel, reflecting on her momentous victory against a former world champion. Her confidence was palpable.
This tournament marks Vantika’s first major FIDE event since her stellar performance at last year’s Chess Olympiad in Budapest. There, she was a key player in the Indian women’s team, which clinched a team gold, with Vantika also earning an individual gold medal for her play on board 4.
When asked if playing in the first round of the World Cup gave her an edge, Vantika affirmed, “Yeah, for sure. Practice, you know, there’s so much of pressure and a different atmosphere. Playing the first round gives more confidence and motivation to play better in the next rounds.” She added that her recent experiences in strong open tournaments had prepared her for such high-pressure moments.
Other Indian Stars Shine
The day brought more good news for the Indian contingent at the World Cup. Grandmaster Koneru Humpy secured a win against Uzbekistan’s Khamdamova Afruza. Vaishali Rameshbabu defeated Canada’s Ouellet Maili-Jade, and Divya Deshmukh triumphed over Georgia’s Mgeladze Kesaria.
In an all-Indian clash, Harika Dronavalli and Nandhidhaa PV played to a draw. Priyanka K also held Poland’s Kulon Klaudia to a draw, showcasing a strong overall performance from the Indian team.
High Stakes at the World Cup
The FIDE Women’s World Cup is not just about individual glory; it’s a crucial stepping stone for aspiring world champions. The tournament offers three coveted spots in the prestigious 2026 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament.
The Candidates Tournament is where the next challenger to the reigning world champion, Ju Wenjun, will be decided. Vantika Agrawal’s win puts her in a strong position as she aims for one of these highly sought-after spots.
- Vantika Agrawal, an International Master, defeated former World Champion Anna Ushenina.
- The Indian player forced a resignation in just 36 moves through strategic endgame play.
- Other Indian players like Koneru Humpy, Vaishali Rameshbabu, and Divya Deshmukh also secured wins.
- The FIDE Women’s World Cup offers three qualification spots for the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament.
The second game of Vantika and Ushenina’s match will see the players switch colors, promising another exciting encounter as Vantika looks to solidify her lead.
