On December 29, Koneru Humpy made history as the only Indian to win FIDE Women's World Rapid Chess Championship title twice. Her inspiring achievement has won numerous praises from everyone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote in a tweet, “Congratulations to Koneru Humpy on winning FIDE Women's World Rapid Chess Championship! Her grit and brilliance continues to inspire millions. The victory is even more historic because it is her second world rapid championship title, thereby making her the only Indian to achieve this feat.” 

Humpy's exceptional talent and dedication to the game has earned her numerous accolades. Over the years, she has consistently ranked among the top female chess players globally and has represented India in various international chess competitions. Known for her strategic brilliance, sharp tactics, and calm composure, Koneru Humpy continues to inspire aspiring chess players around the world.

Becoming a Grandmaster

In 2002, at the age of 15, Koneru Humpy became the youngest woman ever to earn the title of Grandmaster, a remarkable achievement that remained a record until it was surpassed by Hou Yifan. This milestone not only showcased her exceptional talent but also made her one of the most celebrated figures in the world of chess. Humpy's early success in breaking records paved the way for a distinguished career, establishing her as a prominent force in both women's and open chess competitions. Let’s explore her journey to becoming one of India’s most celebrated chess players. 

Chess championships

Koneru Humpy was born on March 31, 1987, in Gudiwada, Andhra Pradesh. Her father, Koneru Ashok, introduced her to chess at a very young age. By the age of six, Humpy had already made her mark in the chess world, winning the Vijayawada city and Krishna district under-eight championships. Her subsequent victories secured both the state and national titles.

Her father began offering her exclusive coaching and devoted more time to her training. In 1996, at the tender age of nine, she emerged victorious in the National Under-10 Girls Championship, held in Mumbai, which earned her a place at the 1997 World Under-10 Girls Chess Championship, held in Cannes, France. Upon her arrival there, she won the world title and was seen as an emerging star of the chess fraternity.

Koneru Humpy has won several prestigious championships and titles throughout her career, establishing herself as one of the world’s leading chess players. In 1999, she became Asia's youngest Woman International Master (WIM), and by 2001, she had earned the title of India's youngest Woman Grandmaster (WGM). Her success continued with a significant victory in 2019 when she claimed the Women's World Rapid Chess Championship. In 2024, she triumphed once more, earning the title of World Rapid Chess Champion, thus adding to her legacy in the chess world.

More awards and honours

Koneru Humpy has also received numerous prestigious awards in recognition of her achievements both in chess and as an athlete. In 2003, she was honoured with the Arjuna Award, one of India's highest sports accolades. Four years later, in 2007, she was awarded the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for her contribution to the sport. In 2021, she was named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year and also recognised as the Sportstar Aces Sportswoman of the Decade (Individual non-Olympic Sports). In 2022, she was awarded the Player of the Chess Tournament at the PSPB Inter-unit Chess and Bridge Tournament in Mumbai. 

Inspiring young chess players

Her journey has inspired innumerable young girls and boys to play chess, compete at international levels, and make a passionate effort to win their first championship. By her labour, her perseverance, and all the extraordinary achievements, Koneru Humpy has now shown that with effort and determination, one can break the boundaries and rise right to the top of the sport. She has now become a mentor for all the youth to follow their dreams, press against themselves, and believe in their potential to achieve greatness on the world stage.