India’s remarkable chess journey added another proud chapter in Doha as Koneru Humpy and Arjun Erigaisi secured bronze medals at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championships. Competing against the world’s elite, both players delivered performances that reflected resilience, consistency, and world-class skill, reinforcing India’s stature as a global chess powerhouse.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged their achievements, praising their dedication and determination – a gesture that further underlined the growing national recognition of chess and its champions.
Koneru Humpy’s Grit
Koneru Humpy entered the Women’s World Rapid Championship as the defending champion and once again proved why she remains one of the most formidable names in the sport. Finishing the tournament as joint leader with 8.5 points, Humpy’s podium position was ultimately decided by FIDE’s tie-break rules.
Despite missing out on gold, her bronze medal was a testament to sustained excellence across more than two decades of elite competition. A title win would have seen her create history as the first woman to claim three World Rapid crowns and join an exclusive list of back-to-back champions. Instead, she finished just behind China’s Zhu Jiner and Russia’s Aleksandra Goryachkina, the latter going on to claim her maiden world rapid title.
Even in disappointment, Humpy’s performance stood as a reminder of her enduring legacy and competitive spirit.
Arjun Erigaisi’s Breakthrough on the Global Stage
In the Open category, Arjun Erigaisi delivered one of the standout Indian performances of the tournament. Finishing behind world number one Magnus Carlsen and Russian Grandmaster Vladislav Artemiev, the 22-year-old clinched a historic bronze medal.
With this achievement, Erigaisi became only the second Indian male player, after Viswanathan Anand, to reach the podium at the World Rapid Championships. His fearless approach and calm under pressure marked him as one of the brightest stars of the new generation.
The Prime Minister praised Erigaisi’s grit, acknowledging the significance of his accomplishment on one of chess’s biggest stages.
Recognition from the Highest Office
PM Modi’s messages celebrating both players reflected his continued effort to personally acknowledge sporting excellence across disciplines. His public appreciation not only honoured the medalists but also highlighted chess as a sport where India is consistently competing at the highest level.
Such recognition carries symbolic weight, inspiring young players and reinforcing the value of long-term dedication to the game.
While the World Rapid Championship has concluded, the spotlight remains on Humpy, who will next compete in the World Blitz Championship in Doha. With her experience and form, she remains a strong contender for another podium finish.
For Erigaisi, the bronze medal represents both a milestone and a beginning a clear signal that he belongs among the world’s best and is poised for even greater achievements.
