New Delhi, Sep.16,2025:Chess Champion Vaishali Rameshbabu has once again etched her name in the annals of chess history by winning the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2025 title for the second consecutive year. The young Indian star displayed remarkable strategic brilliance and mental resilience to dominate her opponents and lift the prestigious trophy.
This back-to-back victory not only reinforces her growing reputation in the global chess community but also secures her a much-coveted spot in the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament, where the best players in the world compete for a chance to challenge the reigning World Champion.
A Look Back at Her Journey to the Top
Born in Chennai, Vaishali Rameshbabu has been passionate about chess since childhood. She rose through the ranks steadily, winning multiple junior championships before making her mark at the international level.
Her dedication to the sport has been evident since her early teens. With countless hours of training, sharp opening preparation, and relentless practice, she has transformed into one of the strongest women chess players India has ever produced.
Her journey has not been easy—competing at the highest level requires immense sacrifice, including long training sessions, traveling across the globe for tournaments, and managing the mental strain of elite competition.
What Makes This Win Special
Winning the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss once is an outstanding achievement, but winning it twice in a row places Vaishali among an elite category of players.
- It proves her consistency at the highest level.
- It establishes her as a genuine contender for the Women’s World Chess Championship.
- It highlights India’s growing strength in women’s chess, traditionally dominated by players from Russia, China, and Eastern Europe.
Vaishali Rameshbabu and India’s Rise in World Chess
The victory of Chess Champion Vaishali Rameshbabu is not just a personal milestone but also a symbol of India’s emergence as a global chess powerhouse.
India has produced legendary players like Viswanathan Anand, who was World Champion for many years, and a new generation of prodigies including Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, Vaishali’s younger brother.
With players like Vaishali, Praggnanandhaa, D. Gukesh, and Arjun Erigaisi consistently performing on the international stage, India is rapidly becoming the new epicenter of world chess.
Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah Praise the Champion
After her historic victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Vaishali on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “remarkable achievement.” He praised her passion, commitment, and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also lauded her performance, describing it as evidence of India’s growing dominance in global chess.
Such recognition from top leaders not only boosts the morale of players but also brings much-needed attention and support to the sport.
What is the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss Tournament
The FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss is one of the most prestigious tournaments in women’s chess. It brings together the world’s top-ranked players in a Swiss-system format, testing their consistency and endurance over multiple rounds.
Winning this tournament guarantees a direct entry into the Candidates Tournament, making it a career-defining milestone for players.
For Vaishali, winning it twice consecutively confirms her position as one of the strongest challengers for the world title.
Path to the 2026 Candidates Tournament
By winning the Grand Swiss, Vaishali Rameshbabu has secured her spot in the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament.
This competition is the gateway to the Women’s World Chess Championship, where the winner gets to challenge the reigning champion.
If Vaishali maintains her current form, she could very well be India’s next world chess champion, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand.
Family of Chess Champions- Vaishali and Praggnanandhaa
Vaishali’s younger brother, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, is already a global chess sensation, known for defeating world champion Magnus Carlsen on multiple occasions.
The Rameshbabu siblings are redefining Indian chess on the global stage. While Praggnanandhaa dominates the men’s circuit, Vaishali’s victories highlight the equal rise of women in the sport.
Global Reactions to Vaishali’s Triumph
International chess analysts, coaches, and fans have praised Vaishali Rameshbabu’s composure and tactical sharpness.
Her performance in the Grand Swiss is being seen as a clear indication that she could be among the favorites for the World Championship title in the near future.
Chess commentators noted her excellent time management, deep opening preparation, and fearless attacking play as the standout features of her game.
Breaking Barriers
The success of Chess Champion Vaishali Rameshbabu is not just an individual triumph but also a step forward in breaking gender barriers in chess.
Historically, women’s chess has had fewer opportunities and less recognition compared to men’s events. However, stars like Judit Polgár, Hou Yifan, and now Vaishali are showing that women can compete and dominate at the very highest levels.
Vaishali’s Playing Style
Vaishali is known for her-
- Aggressive opening repertoire
- Dynamic middle-game play
- Precise endgame skills
Her adaptability against different styles of opponents makes her one of the most versatile players in the circuit today. Experts believe her calm under pressure is what sets her apart in high-stakes tournaments like the Grand Swiss.
Can She Become World Champion
With her qualification for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the next logical step for Vaishali Rameshbabu is the Women’s World Championship match.
Given her current trajectory, chess experts believe she has the potential to become India’s first women’s world champion. If achieved, this would mark a monumental moment in Indian sporting history.
Chess Champion Vaishali Rameshbabu has achieved a feat that very few in the chess world can boast of—winning the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss two years in a row. Her journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and determination.
As she sets her sights on the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the entire chess community, not just in India but across the world, will be watching closely.
