Indian Grandmasters Shine at 2025 FIDE Rapid Chess Championship

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Indian Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and Koneru Humpy for their remarkable performances at the 2025 FIDE Rapid Chess Championship in Doha, where they both secured bronze medals. Arjun made history as only the second Indian male player to achieve a podium finish, while Humpy showcased her dedication in the women's section. The chess community now looks forward to the upcoming World Blitz Championship, promising more thrilling matches ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 29, 2025, 16:23 IST

PM Modi Celebrates Indian Chess Achievements

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Indian Grandmasters Koneru Humpy and Arjun Erigaisi for their impressive performances at the 2025 FIDE Rapid Chess Championship held in Doha, where both secured bronze medals.

Arjun Erigaisi's Historic Win

Arjun Erigaisi achieved his first bronze medal in this championship, scoring 9.5 points. He is now recognized as only the second Indian male player to reach the podium, following the legendary Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand. PM Modi expressed his pride in Arjun's accomplishment and wished him success in future chess competitions.

"I am proud of Arjun Erigaisi for winning the Bronze medal in the open section at the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha. His determination is commendable. I wish him the very best for his future endeavors," PM Modi shared on social media.

Koneru Humpy's Bronze in Women's Section

The women's championship concluded with a blitz playoff after Zhu Jiner, Aleksandra Goryachkina, and defending champion Humpy Koneru all finished with 8 out of 10 points. In the final round, Zhu and Goryachkina drew their matches, while Koneru had a winning position against B. Savitha but faltered under time pressure, resulting in a draw.

According to the tournament rules, only the top two players based on tiebreaks advanced to the playoff. Goryachkina and Zhu faced off in two blitz games, with Humpy ultimately securing the bronze medal. Goryachkina won the first game and drew the second to clinch the title.

Following her achievement, PM Modi praised Humpy's commitment to chess, stating, "Congratulations to Koneru Humpy for her strong finish at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha, earning the Bronze medal in the women's section. Her dedication to the sport is admirable. Best wishes for her future endeavors."

Looking Ahead: World Blitz Championship

The chess excitement continues with the World Blitz Championship set to commence on Monday, December 29, featuring both Open and Women's categories.