INDIA SWEEPS Up Final Glory At World Blitz Chess Championship In USA

New York: India's R Vaishali clinched a bronze in the women's section of the World Blitz Championship, capping another strong performance by the country's chess players after stalwart Koneru Humpy's title-winning show in the rapid event in New York.

In a dominant display by Chinese opponents, world number one Magnus Carlsen and Russia's Ian Nepomniachtchi shared the Blitz title after three sudden-death games failed to produce a winner, while India's Vaishali defeated China's Zhu Jiner 2.5-1.5 in the quarter-finals before losing to another Chinese opponent Ju Wenjun 0.5-2.5 in the semi-final.

R Vaishali walked out of the World Blitz Championship with a bang after her thrilling performance which saw her remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. Her impressive display earned her a bronze medal.

The Indian chess player showed great strength and determination as she pushed herself to new heights. The victory marked a fantastic way for India to sign off on a high, leaving fans beaming with pride at the achievements of their country's top players.

Five-time world champion and International Chess Federation (FIDE) vice president Viswanathan Anand congratulated Vaishali on her efforts, saying it was a great way to end the year. "Congratulations to Vaishali for taking bronze," he wrote. "Her qualification was truly a power packed performance. Our Waca Chess mentee (WestBridge Anand Chess Academy) has done us proud."

Anand expressed joy at Indian players' achievements. "We are so happy to be supporting her and her chess, what a way to wrap up 2024," he added.

The victory of women's team marked a new era for India in the World Blitz Championship. And as we welcome a new year, it is only right that Indians cherish moments celebrated during this festival season.